TEM Study of the Microstructure of an Alumina/Al Composite Prepared by Gas-Pressure Infiltration

Ceramic injection moulding and gas-pressure infiltration were employed for the manufacturing of alumina/AlSi₁₀Mg composites. Porous ceramic preforms were prepared by mixing alumina powder with a multi-binder system and injection moulding the powder polymer slurry. Then, the organic part was removed through a combination of solvent and thermal debinding, and, finally, the materials were sintered at different temperatures. Degrading the binder enabled open canals to form. The sintering process created a porous ceramic material consisting of alumina without any residual carbon content. During infiltration, the liquid metal filled the empty spaces (pores) effectively and formed a three-dimensional network of metal in the ceramic. The microstructure and properties of the manufactured materials were examined using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, porosimetry, and bending strength testing. Microscopy observations showed that the fabricated composite materials are characterised by a percolation type of microstructure and a lack of unfilled pores. The research confirmed the diversified nature of the connection at the particle–matrix interface. It was observed that the interphase boundary was characterised by the lack of a transition zone between the components or a continuous transition zone, with the thickness not exceeding 30 nm. Thanks to their increased mechanical properties and low density, the obtained composites could be used in the automotive industry as a material for small piston rings and rods, connecting rods, or even gears.