Separation of PRMMC into matrix alloy and reinforcements by nozzle filtering method

The SiCP/Al–4 mass%Cu alloy composites fabricated by a low-pressure infiltration process (LPI process) were remelted and separated by nozzle filtering method. In the separation process, the PRMMC specimen was placed in a container with a small nozzle at the bottom. The molten PRMMC was forced to flow out through the nozzle by applying a certain pressure of Ar gas. Most of the molten matrix alloy flowed out through the nozzle and the remainder in the container consisted of SiC particles and a part of the matrix alloy. The particle volume fraction of the remainder was higher than that of the original PRMMC and the remainder would work as a filter to separate SiC particles from the matrix alloy melt. When nozzle tip angle was ranged from 60° to 120°, about 80% of matrix alloy in the PRMMC was separated and few SiC particles were observed in the separated matrix alloy. The surface of recovered SiC particles became slightly roughened due to the reaction with the molten matrix during the separation process. However, this is not expected to affect their reuse.