A combined test for randomness of spatial distribution of composite microstructures

Abstract

A new methodology is presented for characterizing the spatial distribution of second-phase particles in planar sections of multi-phase materials. It is based on the issue of statistically summarizing the results of independent tests against the hypothesis of randomness of the particles. The methodology was applied in multiple planar sections of an aluminium alloy reinforced with silicon carbide particles and leaded to a rejection of the hypothesis of randomness even when the tests from single planar sections were ambiguous.