Influence of SiC Content on Foaming Stability, Cell Structure, and Compression Performance of SiC/Al-Based Composite Foam Prepared by Two-Step Foaming Method

Abstract:

SiC/Al-based composite foams were prepared by a two-step foaming method. The influence of the SiC content and its distribution uniformity on the foaming stability, cell structure, and mechanical properties of the aluminum foams was investigated. The macro/micro-features of the aluminum foams were characterized and analyzed. Results demonstrate that an appropriate increase in SiC content and the uniform distribution of SiC can improve the foaming stability, optimize the cell diameter and cell wall thickness, ameliorate the cell distribution, and enhance the hardness and compressive strength of the aluminum foams. However, either insufficient or excessive SiC leads to uneven distribution of SiC particles, which is unfavorable to foaming stability and good cell structure formation. With 6wt% SiC, both the foaming stability and cell structure of the aluminum foam reach the optimal state, resulting in the highest compressive strength and optimal energy absorption capacity.