Engine Lightweighting: Use of Green Materials as Reinforcement in Aluminum Metal Matrix Composites

Abstract

Lightweighting of automobiles of which the IC engine is a part has become very important due to stringent emission regulations being imposed on vehicle manufacturers, and the need to have more fuel-efficient vehicles. The use of light weight materials such as aluminum metal matrix composites (AMMCs) made up of aluminum alloy and nonmetal reinforcements such as alumina and silicon carbide is one strategy used for lightweighting. Recently, there has been active research in the use of biodegradable green materials such as agricultural wastes as reinforcements for AMMCs. In this chapter, work done on the use of biodegradable green materials as reinforcements for AMMCs is reviewed. The potential for their use as engine parts materials is analyzed. The results show that they have the potential to provide significant weight and cost savings when used as engine parts materials.