Influence of Mo Additions on the Microstructural and Mechanical Properties of Al-Si Scrap Alloys with Extended Iron Tolerances
摘要
This work focused on investigating the influence of Fe-rich intermetallic phases (specifically β-Al5FeSi and α-Al8Fe2Si) on the mechanical properties of an Al-Si alloy with high iron (Fe) impurities (2.3 wt.%). The primary aim is to understand the microstructural characteristics of Mo-modified alloys through optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and X-ray spectroscopy. This work mainly discusses the effect of Mo addition on transforming platelet-like structured morphologies (Al5FeSi) into star-like phases (Al8(FeMo)Si). Moreover, the investigation focused on the influence of additions of Mo on mechanical properties such as microhardness (Hv), tensile strength and dry slide wear behaviour against the steel disc: grade EN31. The findings confirm that minimal additions of Mo (0.1 wt.%) increase the microhardness of the scrap alloy, leading to increased brittleness. Additionally, the study reveals that higher Mo content corresponds to enhanced tensile strength (MPa), which is inversely proportional to microhardness. This work comprehensively discussed the wear mechanism of the studied alloys. In conclusion, this study discusses both qualitative and quantitative aspects of morphologies and mechanical properties of scrap alloy containing both Fe and Mo, contributing valuable findings into the studied alloys.