Mechanical Properties Characterization of Al- 7075 / Phosphogypsum Metal Matrix Composites

Abstract

Recent years have seen a movement in research from monolithic to composite materials due to the worldwide need for low-cost, high-performance, and high-quality materials. Aluminum matrix composites are used extensively in structural applications and the aerospace and car industries, owing to their high strength-to-weight ratio, cheap cost, and excellent wear resistance. A simple and cost-effective process for producing composites is also critical for broadening their use. Using the inexpensive and commonly used stir-casting process, reinforcements including particle alumina, silicon carbide, graphite, fly ash, etc. may be readily integrated into the melt. In the present paper, the 7075 Aluminum alloy metal matrix composite, with varied Phosphogypsum (PG) contents (2, 5, and 10% wt.%) reinforced particles having 53-106 µm in size, have been created utilizing the stir casting process. The influence of Phosphogypsum particle content on the mechanical characteristics of Metal Matrix Composite has been investigated, and the results manifested that the material reinforcement significantly improved the BHN hardness, tensile strength, and wear. These enhancements were made possible by the regular distribution of Phosphogypsum and the refining of Al-7075 grains. The most significant improvement in BHN hardness (123), tensile strength (160 MPa), and wear (0.2032 gm) were recorded at 10% Phosphogypsum.