Microstructure And Mechanical Properties Of Al-WC Composites

Abstract

The scope of the research work is the production and characterization of Al matrix composites reinforced with WC ceramic nanoparticles. The synthesis process was powder metallurgy. The produced composites were examined as far as their microstructure and mechanical properties (resistance to wear, micro/macrohardness). Intermetallic phases (Al12W and Al2Cu) were identified in the microstrucutre. Al4C3 was not detected in the composites. Adding more than 5 wt% WC to the aluminum, microhardness and wear resistance exceed the values of Al alloy. Composites having weak interface bond performed the highest wear rate.

Keywords

• Composite
• aluminum
• WC
• microstructure
• mechanical properties