Abstract: The liquid-phase coating method was used to deposit Y2O3 ceramic on the surface of α-Al¬2O3. The coated-Al2O3p/6061Al composites were produced using squeeze casting technology. The microstructure and tensile properties of the composites were analysed and studied. The results showed that the coated Al2O3 particles are able to disperse homogeneously in the aluminum liquid. The microstructure of the composites is more even in comparison with that of as-received powders. The tensile testing indicated that mechanical properties of the coated-Al2O3p/6061Al composites are better than those of uncoated particles. In the composite with 30% volume fraction, the tensile strength, yield strength as well as elongation is increased by 29.8%, 38.4% and 10.3%, respectively. The SEM analysis of fracture indicated that the dimples of the coated-Al2O3p /6061Al composites are more even.

Key words: Submicron alumina powders, Rare-earth oxide coating, Microstructure...