The Effect of Mechanical Milling on Graphite–Boron Carbide Hybrid Reinforced ZA27 Nanocomposites

Abstract

The main focus of this study is concentrated on the effect of mechanical milling on graphite–boron carbide hybrid reinforced ZA27 nanocomposites. With this respect, nano-sized graphite (Gr) and boron carbide ( $$\hbox {B}_{4}$$ C) reinforced ZA27 matrix nanocomposites were fabricated via a combination of mechanical milling (MM) and hot pressing techniques. MM method was used to produce a ZA27-based hybrid nanocomposite (ZHNC) that nano-sized additives dispersed homogenously in ZA27 matrix. Microstructural and mechanical properties of the nanocomposites were scrutinized as a function of milling time using X-ray diffractometer, scanning electron microscope, hardness and tensile testing machines. Results show that MM method can be utilized for homogeneously distributing the nano-sized additives. Flake-shape morphology negatively influences physical and mechanical properties. It was also found that grain and particle size is decreased after 12 h milling process. With increasing MM time, homogeneous microstructure of the nanocomposite bulk materials was obtained and subsequently their mechanical properties were improved considerably.