Influence of cenosphere reinforcement on microstructure, microhardness, and corrosion behavior of Al5052 alloy matrix composite produced by compo casting method

Abstract The study investigates AA5052alloy matrix composite (MMC) with varying cenosphere particle percentages. Compo-casting integrated cenosphere fly ash particles (2, 4 and 6) wt% into the alloy, improving distribution and wettability. Microhardness increased with higher reinforcement, peaking at 87 Hv with 6% addition. Corrosion resistance in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution showed improved values compared to the base alloy with lowest corrosion rate of 0.144 mmpy for the composite with 6% reinforcement. The study highlights importance of cenosphere reinforcement in enhancing microstructure, hardness, and corrosion resistance in AA5052 MMCs.