Mechanical and wear surface characterisation of aluminium hybrid nanocomposite

Abstract

The newly engineered metal matrix nanocomposite (MMNC) of Al6061 reinforced with 0.4 wt% SiC and 0.5 wt% Gr hybrid nanocomposites were synthesised by ultrasonic assisted stir casting method. The pin-on-disc equipment were conducted on the prepared samples to investigate the tribological behaviour of the hybrid nanocomposite. The hybrid nanocomposite and wear surfaces have been characterised by field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) equipped with an energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS), optical microscope (OM) and 3D profilometer to understand the wear mechanisms. This study shows the effectiveness of incorporation of graphite in the hybrid nanocomposite for reduction of friction, wear and surface roughness. With the introduction of nano SiC and Gr particles into matrix alloy, the number and depth of grooves in worn surface of hybrid nanocomposites decreased. The Al/0.4SiC/0.5Gr hybrid nanocomposite showed superior tribological properties and self-lubricating ability compared to the matrix alloy.