Feasibility study of a novel method for production of glassy reinforced composite Al–Ni 60 Nb 40 of powder thixoforging

In the present study, the semisolid forming has been proved to be effective in fabricating amorphous reinforced aluminum matrix composite of high quality with appreciable mechanical properties. In other words, the Ni60Nb40 glassy reinforcement in 520.0 aluminum matrix composite was successfully fabricated via powder thixoforging without altering the glassy nature. Most prior studies are focused on solid state (powder metallurgy). Subsequently, the use of glassy particles with high crystallization temperatures provides processing the composite at higher temperatures. Considering the powder thixoforming benefits, we open a door to another way of manufacturing high-efficient amorphous reinforced metal matrix composite with brilliant mechanical properties. In monolithic matrix, the alloy produced via powder thixoforging hardness and compression yield strength reached 223(HV) and 747 MPa compared to as cast condition increase of 116% and 228%, respectively. Additionally, this significant mechanical strength was combined with a brilliant fracture strain of 40%. Moreover, the 30 vol.% glassy reinforced composite possess hardness, compression yield strength, and fracture strain of 311(HV), 875 MPa, and 13%, respectively. All produced specimens reached near full density over 99% relative density, leading to a considerable combination of superior strength and ductility. Significantly, the SYS of powder thixoforging samples significantly increased from 89 kN m kg⁻¹ for as cast condition to 290, 238, 220, and 199 kN m kg⁻¹ for the monolithic and amorphous reinforced Al matrix composites of 12, 20 and 30 vol.%.