The effect of B4C reinforcements on the microstructure, mechanical properties, and wear behavior of AA7075 alloy matrix produced by squeeze casting

Abstract

Aluminum and its alloys have become the most popular materials in applications aiming to provide lightness due to their low density. However, the low mechanical properties compared to other competitors are among the disadvantages of aluminum and its alloys. This is an important motivation factor in researching strength increasing mechanisms in aluminum and its alloys. In this study, the effects of reinforcement ratio and type on the microstructure, mechanical properties, and wear behavior of the AA7075/B4C composite produced by squeeze casting method were investigated. Two types of materials were produced and compared—non-reinforced AA7075 alloy and AA7075 allo matrix composite reinforced by 4, 8, 10, and 12 wt% B4C. Microstructures of two materials were analyzed by optical microscope, scanning electron microscope and energy distribution spectrometer. In addition, the mechanical and tribological properties of these materials were investigated. Microstructure and scanning electron microscope analysis reveals that the increasing B4C reinforcement ratio increased the tendency of agglomeration in the matrix. Although B4C reinforcement tends to agglomerate, B4C reinforcement positively affected the AA7075 alloy's hardness, tensile and bending strengths, elasticity modules, and wear resistance.