Evaluation of the properties of Al-6061 alloy reinforced with particulate waste glass
Adeolu Adesoji Adediran, Abayomi Adewale Akinwande, Oluwatosin Abiodun Balogun, Olanrewaju Seun Adesina, T.M.A. Olayanju, Tajudeen Mojisola
Abstract
In this study, an investigation was carried out on the effect of waste glass particles (WGP) (sieved to -23 µm) with varying proportions of 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 wt.% on the properties of Al-6061 alloy. The produced composite samples were subjected to various tests; density, porosity, tensile, impact, compression, and wear. The results showed that increasing the addition of waste glass led to a progressive reduction in density, elongation, strain, and impact energy as WGP increased from 0 to 10 wt.%. The Brinell hardness was observed to increase progressively from 0 to 10 wt.% of WGP. There was an enhancement of yield and ultimate tensile strength, peaking on an incorporation rate of 6 wt.% WGP after which the strength deteriorated. As in the case of yield and ultimate compressive strength, the maximum value was realized at 8 wt.% WGP addition while 10 wt.% led to a fall in strength. Analysis of wear performance revealed a lower wear rate at the lowest variables of applied load, sliding velocity, and distance. It was further observed that increasing the WGP content has resulted in a better reduction of wear. Therefore, waste glass particle infusion of Al-6061 is good for enhancing the properties of the alloy for engineering applications.