Tribological, Thermal and Corrosive Behaviour of Aluminium Alloy 2219 Reinforced by Si3N4 Nanosized Powder

Abstract

The Metal Matrix Composite (MMC) technique is the most effective contrast method when compared with other techniques. By using the method of high energy stir casting, Aluminium alloy Al2219 is reinforced with various percentages of Si3N4 (0, 3, 6, and 9 %) particles. X-ray diffraction along with Scanning electron microscope was performed to characterize the composite. The mechanical and thermal behaviours such as differential thermal analysis thermo gravimetric analysis/, tensile, wear and hardness behaviours were investigated. By using electro chemical potentiodynamic polarization test, the consequence of heat treatment on the corrosion behaviour of the composites when compared to its matrix in 3.5 % NaCl when at 600 rpm was also investigated. In this experimental study, the wear of the aluminium composites was significantly decreased on addition of Si3N4 particles. The study also revealed that, since the inclusion of Si3N4 in the samples and compared to the base aluminium alloy, the mechanical properties of the composites, such as wear resistance, hardness and tensile strength increased by percentage. The surface morphology and Scanning electron microscope analysis of worn surfaces in the test pieces unfold that with the increase in reinforcement content, wear rate decreases.