Processing of AlSi13Mg5 foams using Mg and AlMg50 blowing agents

Abstract

Aluminium closed cell foams with superior structure and properties can be produced using Mg based blowing agents. In this study, AlSi13Mg5 foams were produced via the powder metallurgy route using two different Mg based blowing agents pure Mg powders and pre alloyed AlMg50 powders. Mass spectrometry was performed to determine their hydrogen desorption characteristics. In Mg powder, the peak gas release occurred at 364 C compared to the delayed peak gas release at 420 C from AlMg50 powder. The structure and properties of the foams produced using these two blowing agents were compared by performing image analysis and compression tests, respectively. On average, the foams produced using AlMg50 blowing agents exhibited slightly better porous structure and strength. Peak strength of the foams produced using Mg and AlMg50 powder is 7.3 0.6 MPa and 8 0.4 MPa, respectivel