Synthesis of Lead–Fly-Ash Composites by Squeeze Infiltration

Abstract

In this work, the squeeze infiltration process is employed to synthesize a lead–fly-ash composite. Infiltration was achieved by forcing molten lead to penetrate a fly-ash preform. Among the variables investigated is the ratio of urea to birch sawdust in the induced porosity of the preform. Experimental results show that the squeeze casting technique can be successfully used in the synthesis of the lead–fly-ash composites with a uniform distribution of fly-ash cenospheres. Conditions were found where total infiltration of lead–fly-ash composites was achieved. In this case, all the fly-ash cenosphere surfaces became encased by lead. In addition, the external composite surface consisted of a layer of pure lead as its intended use was as light battery electrodes. Corrosion testing in a 95%, H₂SO₄ solution indicated that the corrosion resistance of this composite was as good as the one found in pure lead.