Production of Al-based composite materials including stress-luminescent particles using 3-dimensional penetration casting (3DPC)

A stress-luminescent powder can be applied as sensors because of luminous characteristic under stress. Key point in fabrication is how uniformly to disperse powders in metallic matrix. Three-dimensional penetration casting (3DPC) process is a good application to fabricate the composite materials using stress-luminescent powders and molten Al. A commercial stress-luminescent powder was prepared (a)stress-luminescent powders (Taikourozai Co.) and (b)EZ bright (EZ bright Cooperation). 3DPC process was conducted using a special mould has dimensions of 42mm height and 30mm diameter. Mould was heated up to 750°C before 3DPC. After 3DPC, particles were well dispersed in Al matrix without crack generations with optical microscopy observation. Also, samples were emitted when they were pressed and scratched.