Formation and microstructure of an in situ aluminum composite by oxygen spray technique

In situ particulate-reinforced Al and Al-Mg matrix composites were successfully fabricated by an oxygen spray technique. The results indicate that Al₂O₃ and MgAl₂O₄ particles directly nucleate and grow via gas-liquid oxidation reaction. The Al₂O₃ particles with the size of 0.1 to 0.5 μm are formed into the Al melt, according to an appropriate system and processing parameters. The reinforcements show a good wettability with the matrix. The hot-rolling process results in an improvement of the uniformity of the particle distribution in the matrix and an increase in the hardness of the composites.