INVESTIGATION OF THE EFFECTS OF RICE HUSK ASH ADDITION ON THE MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF Al-Cu-Mg ALLOY COMPOSITE

Abstract

Investigation of the effects of rice husk addition on the mechanical properties of Al-Cu-Mg composite was carried out. Rice husk ash was added to the Al-Cu-Mg alloy at an interval of 2 weight (%) up to 10 weights (%) using the double stir casting process. The mechanical properties examined include hardness value, ultimate tensile strength, ductility and impact energy. The microstructural examination was done through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results showed that the addition of rice husk ash to the alloy increased the hardness value, while the impact energy decreased as the weight percent of the rice husk ash increases in the composite. Maximum values of yield strength and ultimate tensile strength was noticed at 8 weight (%) addition. The increase in strength and hardness is as a result of distribution of hard, brittle ceramic phases in the ductile matrix. The results obtained generally show that addition of rice husk ash to the Al-Cu-Mg alloy can improve its properties and could be a potential substitute for certain constituents of Aluminium alloy composite.