2026 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Teaching students to weld safely is a difficult task. Ensuring students understand the importance of proper welding techniques, safety precautions, and common mistakes makes for a great and educational experience. This study involved the participation of engineering students, under faculty supervision, in the testing of the interface properties of aluminum 2024 joints reinforced with silicon carbide (SiC) and silicon nitride (Si₃N₄). Utilizing gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW/TIG), SiC and Si₃N₄ particles were introduced between the welded surfaces to mix with the molten pool to attempt to improve the strength of the weld, reduce defect formation, and increase corrosion resistance. Engineering students conducted experiments using computerized tensile testing, corrosion analysis of samples using 1% sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) solutions and examined the microstructural characterization of the weld interface. Results concluded that joint strength increased, and corrosion resistance improved. This provides students with valuable experience in testing the strength of welds and materials through destructive and non-destructive testing. While also reinforcing the importance of proper welding techniques and encouraging innovative thinking in applying materials science. This knowledge and innovative thinking may carry students far into their respective careers.