Sustainable transformation of waste Aluminium into high-performance composites: A review

Abstract

In the modern age, metal matrix composites (MMC) are offering numerous advantages over the pure metal and their enhanced physical and mechanical properties have diversified the range of applications of the MMC. Aluminum is one of the most useful metals in the world and highly requires energy intensive process to produce from the ores. Recycling is the only option to save the resources, and it can be done by the minimum level of energy consumption and emission. However, it is very crucial to follow the proper procedure to eliminate any remaining impurities in the waste metal. Secondary Aluminum can be used for unlimited times in every field of applications where primary Aluminum is suitable. However, for the advanced applications of Aluminum including automobiles, aircrafts, defence, and biomedical instruments that require unique sets of properties, alloying or making composites is inevitable. Particulate reinforcement to the Aluminum matrix is an excellent way of modifying the physical, mechanical, and micro-structural properties of Aluminum. Silicon carbide is a very good reinforcing agent used for manufacturing Aluminum matrix composites (AMC). SiC reinforced AMC can offer strong resistance to fracture and high wear resistivity with excellent surface hardness. Recycling aluminum to manufacture AMC is a sustainable solution to meet the current demand for advanced materials. Synthesizing of reinforcing materials from waste materials can also help to build sustainable, affordable and light weight AMC. The aim of this work is to review the present methods of recycling Aluminum and sustainable transformation of the recycled Aluminum to high-performance particulate reinforced AMC.