Color Etching as a Tool for Phase Identification in an AA1100–25 Vol.% B4C Metal Matrix Composite
Abstract
Abstract A color-etching methodology was applied to an AA1100–25 vol.% B 4 C composite to enhance phase identification under optical microscopy. A solution of 50% (v/v) phosphoric acid in deionized water was used at − 5 °C under a constant current density of 0.02 A cm −2 . As a result, the aluminum matrix appeared pink, the B 4 C particles dark brown, TiB 2 interfacial layers formed distinct contours around the B 4 C reinforcement, and the Si-rich inclusions exhibited a bright blue hue. These contrasts made the interfaces between the B 4 C particles and the aluminum matrix clearly distinguishable. Complementary SEM and EDS analyses confirmed the presence of TiB 2 at the Al/B 4 C interfaces and Si-rich phases within the matrix. The proposed methodology provides a rapid and reliable means of identifying secondary phases and interfacial layers in Al–B 4 C composites.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Aluminum Alloys Composites Properties
Aluminum Alloy Microstructure Properties
MXene and MAX Phase Materials
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Metallography Microstructure and Analysis
- Publisher
- Springer Science and Business Media LLC
- Volume
- 15
- Issue
- 3
- Pages
- 813–820
- Publication date
- 2 April 2026
- Language
- EN