Fabrication and investigation of microstructural, mechanical and wear properties of in situ ZrB₂/fly ash/AA7075 hybrid composite

Abstract

This research explores the microstructural, mechanical and wear characteristics of hybrid aluminum metal matrix composites (HAMMCs). Initially ZrB2 is fabricated by melt reaction and then fly ash incorporated into the aluminum composite melt as secondary reinforcements to fabricate HAMMCs through the ultrasonic agitated stir casting method. Micrographic and phase analysis of the HAMMCs and base alloy is conducted X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS). A wear test was conducted to study the wear properties of alloy and hybrid composite material. The generated wear scar was analyzed using a profilometer to find the wear rate. The tensile strength and hardness of the hybrid aluminum metal matrix composites (HAMMCs) improved remarkably as compared to base alloy. The wear resistance of the fabricated composite also increases on increasing the in situ ZrB2 up to 3 weight fractions.