Synthesis of free standing, one dimensional, AlSiC based functionally gradient materials using gradient slurry disintegration and deposition

In the present study, aluminum–silicon carbide based functionally gradient materials were successfully synthesized using a new technique termed here as gradient slurry disintegration and deposition process. Gradients of SiC were successfully established using this technique for the starting silicon carbide weight percentages ranging between 15–20%. The results were confirmed using microstructural characterization techniques and microhardness measurements. The results further revealed that an increase in the weight percentage of silicon carbide particulates along the deposition direction lead to a concurrent increase in porosity, degree of clustering and microhardness while the silicon carbide–aluminum interfacial integrity remained the same. An attempt is made to interrelate the processing methodology, microstructure and microhardness results obtained in the present study.