Indentation Tests on Al Matrix Syntactic Foams

Abstract

This paper investigates mechanical response of Al matrix syntactic foams manufactured by pressure infiltration casting under indentation test. Syntactic foams with ceramic microspheres of three different particle sizes and inner structures were manufactured and tested. Because the hollow microspheres are stronger than the porous ones, the syntactic foam with hollow microspheres has a higher compressive strength than that of the foam with porous microspheres. As a result, the former has a higher indentation load than the latter at any fixed displacement. However, the latter is more ductile than the former. The indentation load is increased significantly when a disc spreader is used. A combination of weak foam and a thick disc may give rise to an optimum indentation resistance.