Enhancement in Microstructural Characteristics and Mechanical Properties of A6082-Based MMCS via Yttria Stabilized Zirconia Incorporation and T6 Heat Treatment

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of Yttria Stabilized Zirconia (YSZ) and T6 heat treatment on the mechanical and microstructural properties of A6082-based Metal Matrix Composites (MMCs) prepared using the conventional stir casting route. A6082 is widely used in various industrial applications due to its excellent physical, structural and functional properties with good corrosion resistance. YSZ with superior mechanical and thermal properties that can enhance the strength and wear resistance of aluminium-based composites. T6 heat treatment is a widely adopted technique to improve the material properties of aluminium alloys. The results of this study indicate that the T6 heat treatment significantly refines the grain structure of the composites, resulting in improved hardness and tensile values compared to untreated samples. Mechanical properties are also enhanced by YSZ's integration into the composites, with a 9wt.% YSZ addition to the matrix alloy leading to a noticeable improvement in hardness for both the untreated and treated composites. The tensile parameters show a similar trend, with a gain in Ultimate Tensile Strength and Yield Strength up to 6wt.% YSZ addition, after which the findings follow a downtrend (at 9wt.%). The results of this research show that A6082/YSZ composites subjected to T6 heat treatment have great promise as a high-performance material.