Joining high volume fraction SiC particle reinforced aluminum matrix composites (SiCp/Al) by low melting point stannous oxide–zinc oxide–phosphorus pentoxide glass

Abstract This study focused on joining high volume fraction SiC particles reinforced aluminum matrix composites (55 vol% SiCp/Al) with 50SnO–20ZnO–30P2O5 (SZP) glass directly in air. Prior to joining, various properties of the SZP glass and its wettability on the composites were investigated. The results showed that the coefficient of thermal expansion of the glass was 10.58 × 10-6/°C (20–369 °C), which closely match with 55 vol% SiCp/Al composites. The glass transition, crystallization, and softening temperature were identified to be 369, 397, and 486 °C, respectively. Subsequent wetting tests confirmed excellent wettability of the glass on the composites. The joint exhibited sound bonding that was free of defects when brazed at 550 °C for 10 min Zn2P2O7 was formed adjacent to the composites due to the crystallization of the glass. The mechanical properties of the joint were proven to be suitable, exhibiting an average shear strength of 55.3 MPa.