Silicon Carbide, Blf and Aluminium Metal Matrix Composites for Aerospace Applications

Abstract

Ever since the Wright brothers flew their ‘heavier-than-air’ machine, the aviation industry has grown in great leaps and bounds. Because aircrafts were getting faster and/or bigger, the need to develop newer materials took centre stage- the use of wood and fabric gave way to stronger metallic structures (built predominantly using aluminum and its alloys). However, ceramics and composite materials are slowly replacing these too. Since the need to develop more efficient aircraft hasn’t subsided, the requirement for better materials is still in great demand. In this thesis , considers the potential of use Al-SiC metal matrix composite (MMC) with particular reference to the aerospace industry. Initially, the required properties are identified, after which, the work explores pure aluminum and its importance in the industry along with its limitations. Using these limitations, MMC’s were recommended as a possible replacement for aluminum and it is seen that the exact set of properties depend on certain factors.

Therefore these factors such as reactivity at the interface, volume fraction of the BLF material, type of the BLF material and distribution of the BLF material is reviewed using the existing literature.  In this thesis, to find out the mechanical properties (Tensile strength, hardness and impact strength) at different percentages.