Effect of IRON Removal on the Structure and Mecahnical Properties of Aluminium-Silicon Alloys
The research work examined the effect of the removal of iron from aluminium-silicon alloys using dopants on the structure and mechanical properties. Manganese, cobalt and molybdenum were used as the modifying elements. The as-cast Al Si alloys were analyzed for iron content using Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (AAS) technique. The dopants or modifying elements were added as micro additives at various compositions to the percentage of iron present in the master alloys. The modified alloys were produced by melting a calculated mass of the master alloys and adding the dopants in the ratios of 1:1, 2:1, 3:1 and 4.1 to the percentage of iron in the Al Si alloy. The properties tested were ultimate tensile strength, percentage elongation, hardness and microstructure. The result of the chemical analysis of the alloys indicated that the dopants were able to reduce the percentage of iron in the alloys. On addition of 5.4%Co iron was reduced from 1.8% to 0.42%, which is far less than the critical iron level of 0.78%. The mechanical tests showed an improvement with the highest values achieved by the addition of 5.4%Co. The improvement in the microstructure is also shown in plates 1-8.
CURRENT TECHNOLOGIES FOR THE REMOVAL OF IRON FROM ALUMINUM ALLOYS
In the current paper, the Fe-rich phases in and their detrimental effect on aluminum alloys are summarized. The existence of brittle platelet s-Fe-rich phases lowers the mechanical properties of aluminum alloys. The methods to neutralize the detrimental effect of iron are discussed. The use of high cooling rate, solution heat treatment and addition of elements such as Mn, Cr, Be, Co, Mo, Ni, V, W, Cu, Sr, or the rare earth elements Y, Nd, La and Ce are reported to modify the platelet Fe-rich phases in aluminum alloys. The mechanism of the modification is briefly described. Technologies to remove iron from aluminum are extensively reviewed. The precipitation and removal of Fe-rich phases (sludge) are discussed. The dense phases can be removed by methods such as gravitational separation, electromagnetic separation, and centrifuge. Other methods include electrolysis, electro-slag refining, fractional solidification, and fluxing refining. The expensive three-layer cell electrolysis process is the most successful technique to remove iron from aluminum so far.
Wood Microbiology: Decay and Its Prevention
Introductory text on the principles of decay and discoloration processes in wood, with emphasis on the major fungal damages which may develop during the growth, storage, and use of wood. The characteristics, detection, effects, and control of microbial attacks are stressed. Provides a synthesis of the current literature on wood microbiology, a rapidly expanding field of study. (Abstractor's note: This is an important resource for conservation researchers studying the decay of wood in art and architecture.) The following is a list of chapter headings: 1) Introduction to wood microbiology; 2) Wood deterioration agents; 3) Characteristics and classification of fungi and bacteria; 4) Factors affecting the growth and survival of fungi in wood (fungal ecology); 5) Fungal metabolism in relation to wood decay; 6) The decay setting: some structural, chemical, and moisture features of wood in relation to decay development; 7) General features, recognition, and anatomical aspects of wood decay; 8) Chemical changes in wood caused by decay fungi; 9) Ultrastructural features of wood decay; 10) Changes caused by decay fungi in the strength and physical properties of wood; 11) Colonization and microbial interactions in wood decay; 12) Decays originating in the stems of living trees; 13) Biodeterioration of stored wood and its control; 14) Wood stains and discolorations; 15) Decay problems associated with some major uses of wood products; 16) Detection of internal decay; 17) Paint mildew and related degradative problems; 18) Natural decay resistance (wood durability); 19) Chemical protection of wood (wood preservation); and 20) Some trends in wood microbiology research and a new emphasis (biotechnology). -- AATA