The aluminum based composite produced by self propagating high temperature synthesis

Abstract

Self-propagating high-temperature synthesis method can be used for producing aluminum and boron carbide based composites. The experimental composites were fabricated using cobalt and carbon as catalysts. The microstructure of the material was studied using Scanning Electron Microscopy and the mechanical properties were determined using micro-hardness testing. Al/B4C based composites with improved properties were obtained and the role of Co/C catalysts was studied.