Mechanical Properties Optimization and Modeling of Palm Kernel Shell Ash Reinforced Al-Mg-Si Composite using Grey Relational Analysis

There is relatively little information on the mechanical behavior and modeling of palm kernel shell ash reinforced Al-Mg-Si composite. Thus, this study investigates the mechanical behavior and modeling of Al-Mg-Si composite. Hardness, impact strength and modulus of rupture (MOR) of the composite were investigated and analyzed using Minitab 16 and Origin software. It was found that the mechanical properties of the composite are inconsistent with composition variation. The mathematical and graphical modeling of the composite mechanical properties of the composite have been presented. The modeling revealed that aside the composition, there are other factors responsible for the mechanical behavior of the composite which were not considered in the experimental analysis. Validation of the claim was also made with analysis. The study of the interaction between the two compositions on the resultant mechanical properties gave some specific compositions with better mechanical properties. However, this study strongly recommends conduction of further analysis on other important factors responsible for the mechanical response of the composite.