The microstructure and property of Al–Si alloy improved by the Sc-microalloying and Y(2)O(3) nano-particles

The effect of Sc-microalloying and Y(2)O(3) nano-particles on the microstructure and mechanical properties of as-cast Al-5.5Si alloy is studied by means of optical microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, hardness test and tensile test. The influence of annealing treatment on the microstructure and properties of the Al-Si alloys is also investigated as well. The results show that the addition of Sc and Y(2)O(3) nano-particles could significantly improve the mechanical property of the Al-Si alloy. The ultimate tensile strength and yield strength of Al-Si-Sc/Y(2)O(3) alloy are improved by around 45 and 71%, respectively, when compared to that of the Al-Si alloy. The effect of the nanosized particles (precipitated and added) on strengthening and deformation of Al-Si alloy is analyzed and discussed in detail. The results of annealing treatment indicate that the change in mechanical property of the Al-Si-Sc alloy during annealing treatment is mainly associated with the precipitation of the secondary Si phase.