Experimental Investigation on Zirconia Reinforced Aluminium 6061 Metal Matrix Composite

Abstract

Abstract: Composites prepared of aluminium that are reinforced with particles are frequently used in applications related to aerospace, defence, marine and space due to their exceptional characteristics, such as their high corrosion resistance, high fatigue resistance, high strength, high stiffness, high wear resistance, etc. In the current work, Zirconium dioxide was added in various percentages from 0.5% to 1.5% to Aluminium Alloy Al6061 composites using stir casting technique. The samples were made in accordance with ASTM standards for hardness, tensile strength, and microstructure analysis. Zirconium dioxide particles were found in the aluminium matrix according to microstructure investigations done with an optical microscope. The current study says that Zirconium dioxide was evenly distributed throughout the aluminium matrix and that there were no holes or porosities in the matrix. More than the base metal aluminium alloy, it had higher tensile strength and hardness qualities. Tensile strength and hardness qualities increased with an increase in zirconium dioxide content up to 1.5%.