Effects of Fe particle volume percent (from 0 to 5%) and changing the tool rotation direction in each pass were studied on the microstructure evolution and mechanical properties of the in situ Al/intermetallic composites produced by three passes friction stir processing (FSP) with ∼10 µm Fe particles. Optical and scanning electron microscopes were used for the investigation of the composite homogeneity, formation of Al–Fe intermetallic compounds, and fracture surfaces. Tensile and microhardness tests were also carried out to evaluate the mechanical properties of the composites. Solid-state reactions between the aluminum matrix and Fe particles led to in situ formation of Al3Fe and Al5Fe2 intermetallics in the composite. Changing the tool rotation direction in each pass reduced asymmetrical distribution of the reinforcing particles and resulted in better dispersion of Fe particles. Increase in the particle volume percent refined the composite average grain size from ∼35 μm in the sample processed without particles to ∼6 μm in the composite included 5 vol.% of the Fe particles. Zener limiting grain size relationship was used to estimate the volume fraction of the sub-micron particles in the composites. Enhancement of the reinforcing particle volume percent (to 5%) increased ultimate tensile strength and yield strength of the composite up to ∼60% and ∼95%, respectively, due to finer grain structure as well as the higher load-bearing capacity of the Fe and intermetallic reinforcing particles compared to the aluminum matrix. Contributions of the Hall–Petch effect and the other strengthening mechanisms in the yield strength of the composites were also investigated.

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In this paper Beckett's novel, How It Is, is discussed in the light of the monomyth of quest. It is argued that this novel does not follow the traditional framework of novel and it has an antihero of the twentieth century with a vague and uncertain quest. In most works of fiction, the quest is followed by fulfillment and accomplishment to make the protagonist worth his painstaking labor and suffering, while with Beckett's characters, failure becomes the dominant issue. Most of his characters are narrators of their own tale who face failure of expression though they are obliged to express it. The characters with one syllable names of Bem, Bom and Pim represent the mankind stuck in the "mud" of the present unable to distinguish past, present or future. There is a constant tendency to reach the goal which is unattainable.

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