Microstructure of Al/Al bimetallic composites by lost foam casting with Zn interlayer

摘要

A novel method named the lost foam casting (LFC) liquid-liquid compound process with a Zn interlayer was proposed to prepare the Al/Al bimetallic composites, and the microstructure of the Al/Al bimetallic composites was investigated in the present work. The results showed that the Al/Al bimetallic composites were successfully produced using the novel process. The Zn interlayer prevented different liquid metals from directly mixing. A uniform and compact metallurgical interface was obtained between the Al and the A356 aluminium alloy, which consisted of the eta-Zn, alpha-Al rich, alpha + eta eutectoid, and primary silicon phases. The microhardness of the interface layer was significantly higher in comparison with those of the Al and A356 matrixes.