Magnetic and electrical properties of aluminium matrix composite reinforced with magnetic nano iron oxide (Fe₃O₄)

Abstract

Aluminium matrix composite materials are used in aeronautical and aerospace, defence and automotive applications especially in the thermal management areas. Aluminium matrix composites (AMCs) reinforced with nano iron oxide (Fe₃O₄) exhibit good physical and mechanical behaviour (electrical conductivity and magnetic permeability), which makes them excellent multifunctional lightweight materials. The present paper is based on low-cost manufacturing of light and efficient materials for aeronautical applications. First of all, the results of dielectric spectroscopy are presented and space charge measurements are evaluated. To that end, a study has been carried out on an aluminium matrix composite reinforced with nano iron oxide and other alloying elements produced in our laboratory. Micro-indentation tests were conducted on the AMC to investigate its elastic modulus, hardness, and scratch tests with very long cycles were performed to study its wear performance. Scanning electron microscopy was used to study the morphology of damaged surfaces. The goal was to get more information about the influence of fillers on the corresponding reinforcing and wear mechanism.

Keywords:

• Aluminium matrix composites
• iron oxide (Fe₃O₄)
• damage analysis
• electrical conductivity
• magnetic permeability

Acknowledgements

Authors want to thank financial support from CNPq – Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (Brazil), Program French Catedra UNICAMP/French Embassy in Brazil.