CORROSION CHARACTERISTICS OF ZA-27 GLASS-FIBER COMPOSITES/

This paper evaluates the corrosion characteristics of short-glass-fibr e-reinforced ZA-27 alloy composites. The unreinforced matrix, as well as the composites containing 1, 3 and 5% by weight of glass fibres, we re tested. The composites were fabricated by the compocasting techniqu e. The specimens were tested in both as- cast and heat-treated conditi ons. The corrodent used was 1 N hydrochloric acid. As the glass fibre content was increased, the composite was seen to become more resistant to corrosion. Heat treatment at 320 degrees C for a few hours also en hanced the corrosion resistance of the composites as well as of the un reinforced matrix material. An attempt is made to explain these phenom ena. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Ltd.