Abstract
Submicron and Nanometric sized ceramic particles provide an enhanced performance of aluminum matrix composites (AMCs) to that of commonly used micron sized particles. B4C particles (∼250 nm) were effectively reinforced (0,1,2,3 and 4 wt%) into AA2124 aluminum alloy using conventional stir casting technique using an arrangement to pour the molten metal through an aperture at the bottom. B4C particles were preheated and small quantity of K2TiF6 was added to improve wettability. The microstructure and other details of the cast composites were studied using XRD, FESEM, TEM and EBSD. FESEM micrographs and elemental mapping showed a refinement in dendrite structure and proper dispersion of B4C particles in the aluminum matrix. EBSD demonstrated a decrease in grain size with increased content of B4C particles. XRD patterns confirmed the absence of interfacial reaction between aluminum and B4C particles. TEM micrographs revealed the development of dislocation filled strain fields and reaction free proper bonding of B4C particles. The addition of B4C particles provided an improvement in microhardness and wear resistance of the composite.
Published Version
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