Synthesis, microstructure and tensile characterization of B4C particulates reinforced Al7085 alloy aerospace composites

Abstract

In the current studies microstructure and mechanical behavior of Al7085 metal alloy with 4 and 8 wt. % of B4C composites. Liquid metallurgy method was used to create composites of Al7085 alloy with 4 and 8 weight percent of B4C particles. Microstructural analysis by SEM/EDS was performed on the prepared composites. Furthermore, ASTM E8 and E10 standards were used to examine the tensile and hardness properties of Al7475 alloy reinforced with B4C composites. The SEM analysis revealed that the particles were uniformly dispersed throughout the base alloy. EDS spectrums confirmed the reinforcement particles presence in the Al7085 alloy in the form of boron and carbon elements. Moreover, the incorporation of B4C particles into Al7085 alloy has enhanced the material's mechanical behavior. The hardness and tensile strength of Al7085 alloy was improved 27.59% and 35.91% respectively with the combination of boron carbide particles. After boron carbide particles were added to Al7085, the alloy lost some of its ductility and density. The prepared composites were then subjected to tensile fractured surfaces to investigate ductile and brittle modes of fracture.