Microstructure and mechanical properties of suction-cast aluminium–cerium alloys

Abstract

In the present investigation, the microstructure and tensile properties of Al–12Ce, Al–12Ce–4Si, and Al–12Ce–4Si–0.4Mg alloys (wt-%), fabricated by suction-casting (SC) and gravity-casting (GC) were compared. The SC alloys exhibited finer grains and a higher number of precipitates than the GC alloys. Addition of Si and Mg in Al–12Ce alloy improved the hardness substantially. Incorporation of 4Si and 0.4Mg enhanced the yield and tensile stress but reduced ductility in the SC alloys. The SC Al-12Ce-4Si-0.4Mg alloy illustrated the best hardness and tensile strength. The fracture behaviour of the SC Al–12Ce alloy changed from quasi-cleavage to complete cleavage fracture following the addition of 4Si and 0.4Mg.