Mechanical and tribological characteristics of Si3N4 reinforced aluminium matrix composites: A short review

Abstract

Abstract The aluminium matrix composite (AMCs) plays a significant role in enhancing the properties of the material that are applicable in automotive industries, marine, aerospace, etc. Whereas these AMCs were further researched with the integration of reinforcing particulates in different percentages with the aim of enhancing the characteristics of parent aluminium matrix. Introducing ceramic particulate reinforcements into aluminium matrix produces a composite with better physical, mechanical and tribological properties in comparison to the traditional engineering materials. The main purpose of producing aluminium matrix composites (AMCs) is to develop lightweight materials having high stiffness and high specific strength. There are different effects observed with subsequent addition of reinforcements on the aluminium matrix composite. This paper attempts to present a review concerning the mechanical and tribological characteristics of aluminium matrix composite synthesized via stir casting route. This literature review provides an insight to the effects encountered after incorporating hard Si3N4 particulates in aluminium matrix along with its performance. It also attempts to highlight the impact of addition of silicon nitride (Si3N4) in AMCs, as this ceramic possesses superior wear and mechanical characteristics. Moreover, the effect of different reinforcements upon minimizing the resultant friction as well as wear for attaining superior lubrication will also be discussed in detail.