Quasi-static compression deformation and energy absorption characteristics of basalt fiber-containing closed-cell aluminum foam

Abstract

In this work, closed-cell aluminum foams with 4 wt.% contents of short-cut basalt fibers (BFs) were successful prepared by using the modified melt-foaming method. The pore size of BF-containing aluminum foam and commercially pure aluminum foam was counted. The distribution of BF and its effect on the compressive properties of closed-cell aluminum foams were investigated. The results showed that the pore size of BF-containing aluminum foams was more uniform and smaller. BF mainly existed in three different forms: Some were totally embedded in the cell walls, some protruded from the cell walls, and others penetrated through the cells. Meanwhile, under the present condition, BF-containing aluminum foams possessed higher compressive strength and energy absorption characteristics than commercially pure aluminum foams, and the reasons were discussed.