In this study, 0-12wt.% of Si3N4 or 0-30wt.% of SiC was added to the aluminum matrix by powder metallurgy method. Hence, the effect of reinforcement elements’s (SiC or Si3N4) amount on the mechanical properties was examined. Micro structures and crystal structures of composites were analyzed by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray diffractometry (XRD), respectively. As a result of the experiments, it was observed that the hardness value of pure aluminum was about 30 HV. Also, the hardness of Al-9%Si3N4 and Al-30%SiC composites increased to 58 HV and 80 HV, respectively. As a result, it has been observed that the addition of SiC or Si3N4 makes a positive contribution to the hardness and microstructure of aluminum composites.  

Keywords - Aluminum, silicon carbide, silicon nitride, powder metallurgy, microstructure

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