Effects of tertiary ceramic additives on the micro hardness and wear characteristics of Al2618 + Si3N4-B4C-Gr hybrid composites for automotive applications

Abstract

In innovative materials engineering, one of the most important areas of research is the process of incorporating the appropriate combinations of reinforcements into matrix material. These innovative materials have enhanced strength as well as improved wear properties. In light of this, the purpose of the current work was to construct hybrid composites utilizing Al2618 by integrating varied quantities of Boron Carbide (B4C), silicon nitride (Si3N4), and graphite particles by a liquid casting. The manufactured composites were subjected to scanning electron microscopy coupled with XRD analysis, micro hardness test, and wear evaluations. An examination of the microstructure of the material has shown that the reinforcement is evenly dispersed throughout the base alloy. The impact of different reinforcing mixtures on mechanical characteristics and wear behavior was also investigated.

Keywords

• Silicon nitride
• Boron carbide
• Graphite
• Stir casting
• Microhardness
• Wear