Thermodynamic Application of Predicting the Effect of Trace Element of Ag on Reinforced <i>In Situ</i> Particles in Al-Cu/TiB₂ Composites

Abstract

Using the Wilson equation and an extended Miedema model, the thermodynamic effect of silver on the stability of reinforced particles in the Al and Al-Cu matrix were evaluated. The formation of Al3Ti, AlB2, and TiB2 phases are promoted with the addition of silver atoms in Al matrix. Minimum values of excess free energy of reinforced particles were found in the Al-Cu-Ti-B-Ag system. Evidently, Low content of silver atoms actually has the profound effect in promoting the reinforced particles in Al-Cu matrix.