Microstructure characterization on tensile properties of closed-cell aluminum foam

Due to high mechanical efficiency, closed-cell aluminum foam (CCAF) is suitable for lightweight structures and energy absorption applications. However, mechanical behavior of CCAF has not been fully apprehended in microstructure parameters. For this reason, closed-cells structure-performance of CCAF has been investigated by using comprehensive experimental and microstructure characterization method. Scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy has been used to evaluate the morphology, deformation mechanism and crack propagation of CCAF. The results have shown that increase in relative densities is directly related to increase in yield strength, young's modulus and ultimate tensile strength due to improvement of load distribution and reduction of stress concentration in dense cell walls of CCAF.