Production and mechanical characterization of Ni-coated carbon fibers reinforced Al-6063 alloy matrix composites.

Abstract In this study, it aimed to produce carbon fiber (CF) reinforced aluminum metal matrix composite by squeeze casting method. In order to overcome the wetting problem between the aluminum matrix and the reinforcing agent, carbon fibers were coated with Ni coating with electroless technique. Different bath pH values and hypophosphite (HP), coating durations and bath temperature were investigated. SEM, EDS and XRD methods used to determine the characterize the layers. It has been observed that increasing the pH of the bath, coating time, bath temperature and amount of hypophosphite increases the thickness of the Ni coatings on the carbon fibers. Two different thicknesses of coatings were used with different volume fractions of fiber used to reinforce the 6063 aluminum as matrix alloy. Squeeze casting process was used for the production of the composites to increase the connection between the matrix and the carbon fibers. After achieving a good bonding, three-point bending, Charpy impact, and Vickers hardness tests were carried out to investigate the difference of at the mechanical properties. It was observed from the mechanical tests that while the hardness and the three-point bending strength was increasing the impact strength was decreasing after the carbon fiber addition. Also coating, in general, helping the mechanical properties, mechanical properties of composites are badly affected by higher coating thicknesses. Highlights • Carbon fiber reinforced 6063 alloy was produced by squeeze casting method. • Ni−P were coated on carbon fibers by electroless technique to enhance the wettability. • Ni coated CF addition increased mechanical properties of 6063 alloy. • Ni thickness and distribution of fibers in the matrix affect the mechanical properties. • Incorporation of carbon fibers resulted in increased bending strength in 6063 alloy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]