Author : Khalid Almadhoni and Sabah Khan

The effective thermal properties of aluminum metal matrix composites (AMMCs) reinforced by ceramic particles were explored. The importance of AMMCs reinforced by ceramic particles lies in their properties are characterized by and which is difficult to availability combined in other engineering material. Synthesis and development of AMMCs with different properties increased dramatically due to development of technology and increasing modern industry requirements in an engineering applications. By selection a suitable reinforcements in AMMCs, a new composite could be synthesized which meets the requirements of the required engineering applications. Various types of ceramic particles such as oxides, carbides, nitrides, as well as carbon nanotubes can be used as reinforcements in AMMCs. Thermal properties of AMMCs consisting of an aluminum as continuous matrix phase and ceramic particles as reinforcements are directly affected by type, size, geometry, RVR and modulus of elasticity of dispersions. Also the difference in the heat transfer mechanisms in the constituents of composites plays an important role,, as well as an interfacial thermal barrier resistance influence effectively on heat transfer inside the composite and thus the thermal properties. In the present study, based on the literature review, the effective thermal properties of AMMCs reinforced with ceramic particles were discussed.

Keywords: Thermal properties, Aluminum metal matrix composites and Ceramic particles.

Article published in International Journal of Current Engineering and Technology, Vol.5, No.4 (Aug-2015)