Effect of Calcined Fly Ash on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Aluminum Matrix Composites

Composites comprising calcined fly ash and scrap aluminum were prepared using the stir casting technique. The microstructure of the samples was analyzed by optical microscope and SEM, while mechanical properties were tested by Brinell hardness machine and tensile testing machine. Phase analysis of fly ash was conducted with XRD. The properties of composite materials largely depend on the amount of calcined fly ash. The composite with 6% fly ash showed the best mechanical performance with a hardness of 107 HB and ultimate strength of 209 MPa. Calcination of fly ash removed excess impurities and significantly improved the effectiveness of reinforcement. Automobile scrap aluminum and power plant fly ash can be effective for producing an aluminum matrix composite.