Synthesis, Microstructure, and Mechanical Properties of Aluminum/Granulated-Slag Composites

The present work provides results of aluminum metal matrix composites reinforced with granulated slag (GS). The study concerns the synthesis and properties of AI/GS composites based on powder metallurgy techniques. Dilatometry, differential thermal analysis, and scanning electron microscopy were employed to track the reactions between the aluminum matrix and the granulated slag during the sintering treatment. Thermal analysis results revealed an exothermic reaction at 640 °C, leading to the formation of the intermetallic compound AL,Fe. The hardness and compressive strength of the sintering compacts were determined as a function of the GS content. The best results were achieved with the aluminum composites with 15 wt.% GS, reaching compressive strengths up to 372 MPa.