Evaluation of the properties of Al-6061 alloy reinforced with particulate waste glass

In this study, an investigation was carried out on the effect of waste glass particles (WGP) (sieved to -23 µm) with varying proportions of 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 wt.% on the properties of Al-6061 alloy. The produced composite samples were subjected to various tests; density, porosity, tensile, impact, compression, and wear. The results showed that increasing the addition of waste glass led to a progressive reduction in density, elongation, strain, and impact energy as WGP increased from 0 to 10 wt.%. The Brinell hardness was observed to increase progressively from 0 to 10 wt.% of WGP. There was an enhancement of yield and ultimate tensile strength, peaking on an incorporation rate of 6 wt.% WGP after which the strength deteriorated. As in the case of yield and ultimate compressive strength, the maximum value was realized at 8 wt.% WGP addition while 10 wt.% led to a fall in strength. Analysis of wear performance revealed a lower wear rate at the lowest variables of applied load, sliding velocity, and distance. It was further observed that increasing the WGP content has resulted in a better reduction of wear. Therefore, waste glass particle infusion of Al-6061 is good for enhancing the properties of the alloy for engineering applications.