Effect of in situ phases on microstructure and properties in Al–Bi immiscible alloy

Abstract

Al–Bi immiscible alloy is of particular interest as potential self-lubricating wear materials with a homogeneous distribution of minority phase. However, it is difficult to obtain a homogeneous microstructure by conventional casting methods due to liquid phase separation of Al–Bi immiscible alloy. We have developed a new strategy to restrain liquid phase separation and improve the properties of Al–Bi immiscible alloy by in situ phases. The in situ AlB2 phase acts as heterogeneous nucleation site to accelerate the nucleation and slow down the velocity of the Bi-rich droplet, resulting in a significant size reduction and a homogeneous microstructure of Al–Bi immiscible alloy. The self-lubricating wear resistance of Al–Bi immiscible alloy can be further enhanced by in situ Al2Cuphase.

Thermal properties and container compatibility of (Al0.8Si0.2)100−xBix phase change energy storage alloys

“…Ga and In have relatively low melting points and are unsuitable for high-temperature environments. Bi is usually used as self-lubricating materials [11,12] and load--bearing materials; however, there is relatively little research on energy storage applications. The addition of Bi has been observed to alleviate the cracking effect on the matrix, leading to an overall improvement in the mechanical properties of the Al-Si-Bi alloy [13].…”