Manufacture and characterization of a novel agro-waste based low cost metal matrix composite (MMC) by compocasting

Fabrication of low cost composites with enhanced properties has been of great interest for researchers across the globe. In line with this, the present work deals with a low cost production technique for an aluminium alloy composite using a cheaper and easily available reinforcement. The fabrication and mechanical characterization of Al6061 alloy reinforced with Lemon Grass Ash (LGA) particles are dealt in the present investigation. The metal matrix composites (MMCs) were prepared by the addition of 3, 5 and 7 wt% reinforcing particulates through compo-casting technique. Optical microscopy and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) were used for metallurgical characterization exhibiting a homogeneous distribution of the LGA particles. Mechanical properties viz. tensile strength and hardness were found to be significant for these low cost composites. It was observed that the tensile property and the microhardness of the composites showed a linear improvement i.e. 160 MPa and 155 HV respectively at the optimum addition of LGA as reinforcement. Such improvement can be attributed to the fine dispersion of LGA particles offering resistance to the motion of dislocations in the matrix alloy.