Microstructure characteristics and thermodynamic properties of A357-SiCp/A357 layered composites prepared by semi-solid vacuum stirring suction casting.

A357-SiC_p/A357 layered composites were prepared using a semi-solid vacuum stirring suction casting method. The microstructures, mechanical properties, and thermal conductivities of the composites fabricated under different suction casting processes were compared. Additionally, the microstructural evolution characteristics and performance enhancement mechanism of the A357-SiC_p/A357 layered composites were discussed. The results demonstrate that suction casting at 610 °C with a low solid phase ratio can significantly enhance the material density and reduce the agglomeration of SiC_p. The A357-SiC_p/A357 interface is clear and straight with good bonding. With an increase in the suction casting temperature, the bending resistance and thermal conductivity of the A357-SiCp/A357 layered composites exhibit a trend of significantly increase at first and then slowly decrease owing to casting defects, interface bonding, and SiCp distribution. Compared with SiCp/A357 composites, the bending strength, deflection, and thermal conductivity of the A357-SiCp/A357 layered composites increase from 257 MPa, 1.07 mm, and 155.72 W·(m·K)^-1 to 298 MPa, 2.1 mm, and 169.86 W·(m·K)^-1, respectively. This study provides a reference for improving the rheological casting of aluminum matrix layered composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]