In Situ Formation of Particle Reinforced Al Matrix Composite by Selective Laser Melting of Al/Fe2O3 Powder Mixture

This work presents a novel in situ reaction approach to produce Al matrix composites from a powder mixture of Al/5?wt% Fe2O3 by using selective laser melting (SLM). It is found that the SLM process not only is able to produce three-dimensional parts, but also is capable of activating an in situ reaction in the powder mixture, producing particles mainly from alumina (Al2O3) and iron combinations (such as Fe2+Al2O4) in Al matrix. These particles (as reinforcements) can be distributed uniformly with a good particle/matrix interface under controlled conditions.