Effects of Argon Concentration and Heat Treatment on the Mechanical Properties of Al₆₅Cu₂₀Fe₁₅ Quasicrystal Alloy

Abstract

Characterisation on a series of bulk Al₆₅Cu₂₀Fe₁₅ quasicrystal alloy synthesised via in-situ induction casting under argon (Ar) enriched atmosphere and standard room ambient is the focal point of this research. The significance of atmospheric inertness in the course of induction casting process as well as the impacts of subsequent heat treatment at 650°C, 750°C and 850°C on the mechanical properties of Al₆₅Cu₂₀Fe₁₅ quasicrystal alloy were investigated. The Al₆₅Cu₂₀Fe₁₅ quasicrystal alloy samples produced by induction casting under critically controlled inert environment and standard room ambient as well as subjected to posterior annealing process were inspected in terms of their surface hardness as well as compressive strength. Vickers hardness test was performed in accordance to ISO 6507-1:1997, while compression test was conducted according to ISO 13314:2011 and ASTM E 9-89a (2000). Research findings inferred that the employment of argon (Ar) gas during on-site induction casting altered the pore size, composition, indentation hardness and the fracture mechanisms of Al₆₅Cu₂₀Fe₁₅ quasicrystal alloy.