Synthesis and evaluation of aluminium matrix composites reinforced with laboratory waste borosilicate glass

Abstract

This study investigates the synthesis and properties of AA8011 aluminium matrix composites (AMCs) reinforced with laboratory waste borosilicate glass powder by weight percentage (wt%), fabricated via cost-effective stir casting. Samples were produced with varying glass powder concentrations (3, 6, and 9 wt%) and subjected to comprehensive mechanical and microstructural analyses. We observed significant quantitative improvements in mechanical properties: microhardness increased by up to 27.14% (from 70 to 89 HV) and ultimate tensile strength (UTS) improved by up to 36.77% (from 155 to 212 MPa) for the 9 wt% reinforced composite. Conversely, impact strength decreased by up to 34.28% with increased reinforcement due to the brittle nature of the particles. Void content also reduced significantly, by up to 43.25% for the 9 wt% composite. Microstructural analysis, including SEM and EDX, confirmed uniform dispersion of reinforcement up to 6 wt% and highlighted the potential for particle clustering at 9 wt%, which influenced fracture behavior. Tribological assessments demonstrated enhanced wear resistance in the reinforced composites across various loads. These findings underscore the dual benefits of repurposing waste material for sustainable development and producing lightweight, high-performance AMCs suitable for structural, automotive, and aerospace applications.