Characterization of Functionally Graded Bronze Matrix Ceramic Reinforced Composite Materials

Abstract

In this study,ceramic reinforced bronze matrix functionally graded materials (FGMs) wereproduced by using powder metallurgy method. B4C, TiC, Mo2Cand SiC were selected as ceramic reinforcements. The samples with compositions bronze+ 10% SiC, bronze + 10% B4C, bronze + 10% Mo2C, and bronze+ 10% TiC were sintered at 750 °C for 90 minutes. Investigations were carriedout to assess the mechanical properties and microstructures of specimens. Forthis purpose, optical microscope, scanning electron microscope (SEM-EDS), andX-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis were applied for microstructure investigations.Sample hardness testing was carried out with the help of Vickers hardnesstesting device. Composite layers of ceramic particles were homogeneouslydistributed. Little pore formation was observed. While the upper and lowercomposite layers of the FGMs produced were hard, the middle layer was found tobe ductile. The highest hardness value was reached in the B4Creinforced FGM.

Keywords

• fgm
• bronze
• ceramic reinforcements