Microhardness Of Composites Research Articles

Investigation of the Influence of Al2O3 Particles on the Microhardness and Tensile Strength of PA6 Composites

Polyamide is a high-performance synthetic plastic known for its strength, durability, flexibility, chemical resistance, and low cost, making it widely used in engineering, automotive, and electrical. However, the surface and mechanical properties can be further enhanced to meet the growing demands of advanced engineering applications. This study aims to investigate the influence of Al2O3 particles on the hardness of polyamide 6 (PA6). The Al2O3 was mixed with PA6 at weight percentages (wt.%) of 0.3% and 1.5% then were fabricated into composite plates using compression molding and subsequently. As a result, the composites achieved higher microhardness and tensile strength compared to the matrix with increases of 13.3% and 7.3% achieved by incorporating 0.3 wt.% of reinforcement, respectively. This result suggests that Al2O3 has the potential to improve the surface properties and mechanical strength of the matrix material.

Development of sustainable aluminum alloy‑tungsten carbide hybrid composites using industrial waste - An experimental analysis

The research article focuses on the development of aluminum alloy 6061 sustainable composites with the utilization of industrial waste through the use of the stir casting process. Recycling industrial waste is essential for reducing environmental impact. Thus, the red mud waste came from the aluminum production process, which was considered for producing sustainable metal matrix composites (MMCs). Also, tungsten carbide (WC) microparticles have been used to develop hybrid aluminum composite materials. The concentrations of red mud and tungsten carbide were 2 wt%, 4 wt%, and 6 wt%, respectively, and were used to achieve the desired strength performance of aluminum metal matrix composites. The elemental and bonding analyses of hybrid composites were analyzed using X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis. Mechanical characterizations of aluminum hybrid sustainable composites were also investigated, including tensile, compression, and microhardness testing. The results show that increasing reinforcement by up to 4 wt% increases the mechanical strength of aluminum alloy composites. The tensile, compression, and microhardness of metal matrix composites are increased by 25.24 %, 40.2 %, and 20.6 %, respectively, as compared to the aluminum alloy 6061 alloy. The surface morphology of metal matrix composites was analyzed by utilizing Field emission scanning electron microscopy. The proposed sustainable aluminum composites have the potential to develop structural and automotive components due to their higher strength-to-weight ratio.

Influence of dental bleaching on the microhardness and flexural strength of resin composites

Purpose. This study aimed to examine the influence of dental bleaching systems (home bleaching system and two in-office bleaching systems) on the surface microhardness, and flexural strength of the two resin composite restorative materials (Beautifil II and OliREVO). Methods. For each test, a total of 48 samples were prepared with both types of composites. The samples of each type of composite were divided at random into four groups each of six samples, control group (C) was not bleached and kept in distilled water, other three groups (G1, G2, and G3) were bleached with 10% hydrogen peroxide (HP) home beaching, 35% and 40% HP in-office bleaching systems, respectively. To measure the composite resin's microhardness, a Vickers microhardness tester was used, while a universal testing machine was used to measure its flexural strength. Results. For statistical analysis, Duncan and ANOVA tests were used. A p-value ≤0.01 indicates statistically significant results. In-office bleaching systems (35% and 40% HP) significantly reduced microhardness and flexural strength of the used resin composites. Generally, the hardness and flexural strength of Beautifil II were better than OliREVO composite. Conclusion. Regarding the physical properties of composite resins, the microhardness and flexural strength may be compromised by bleaching treatments.

Investigation on the Microstructure, Microhardness and Tensile Strength of Stir-Casted A713-TiB2 Composites

Investigation on the Microstructure, Microhardness and Tensile Strength of Stir-Casted A713-TiB2 Composites

The Influence of Modeling Liquid on Microhardness of Single-Shade Composite Resins: An In-Vitro Study.

To assess the effect of modeling liquid on the microhardness of single-shade universal composites. A total of 60 disk-shaped samples were prepared in six groups [Omnichroma (OM), Essentia Universal (EU), Vittra APS Unique (VA), OM + Signum, EU + Signum, and VA + Signum] for surface microhardness measurements. Samples were stored in a coffee solution for 7 days and after that bleached with an Office bleaching agent (Total Blanc Office). Surface microhardness was measured for baseline, after staining, and after bleaching. A two-way analysis of variance test was used for statistical analysis (P < 0.05). In terms of microhardness, there is a statistically significant difference (P < 0.05) between the two categories with and without modeling liquid. The alterations in microhardness measurements at baseline, after staining, and after bleaching are statistically significant (P < 0.05). The Essentia groups showed the lowest microhardness findings at all measurement times. Microhardness values decreased significantly more when EU was applied along with modeling liquid than when it was not applied at different intervals. Modeling liquid affects the microhardness of single-shade composites. Microhardness is reduced when modeling liquid is used for all three single-shade universal composite resins at three different times.

Effects of different LED light curing units on the degree of conversion and microhardness of different composites: FT-IR and SEM-EDX analysis

The aim of this study was to evaluate the degree of conversion (DC), Vickers microhardness (VHN), main components and surface properties of a microhybrid and two bulk-fill composite resins polymerized with second and third generation light emitting diodes (LED). Sixty cylindrical specimens of Filtek™ Bulk-Fill, everX Posterior (bulk technique) and Filtek Z250 (incremental technique) were prepared in plexiglass molds (5 mm in diameter and 4 mm in thickness) and cured with second-generation LED (Woodpecker LED.B) and third-generation LED (Valo) resulting in six groups (n = 10). DC was determined using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and VHN with Vickers microhardness tester. The main components were identified by means of energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) microanalysis; whereas filler particles and surface properties were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). VHN and DC data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA, followed by t-test with Bonferroni correction for pairwise comparison (p < 0.05). When DC and VHN values were evaluated, after polymerization with second and third generation LED, there was a statistical difference in bulk-fill composites, while there was no statistical difference in microhybrid composite. While, the highest DC and VHN values were obtained after polymerization of Filtek Z250 with Valo, the lowest DC and VHN values were obtained with Filtek Bulk-Fill with Woodpecker LED.B. The degree of conversion and microhardness are affected by the structure of the composite resin and LEDs.

Experimental investigation in enhancing the mechanical, wear and corrosion resistance properties of Al6061-SiC-NSA composites fabricated using stir casting process

The study investigates the mechanical, and tribological properties of Al6061-SiC-NSA hybrid composites. The characterization via FE-SEM reveals NSA particle’s crystal structure and agglomeration, with an average particle size of approximately 400 nm. The EDS analysis confirms the presence of oxides (TiO2, SiO2, Fe2O3, Al2O3) along with calcium and potassium. The XRD spectra corroborate these findings, additionally identifying Calcite and intermetallic compounds. The Al6061–5SiC-10NSA composites has improved compressive strength of 254 MPa compared to 220 MPa for base Al6061 alloy. The tensile strength of base Al6061 (100 MPa) decreased to 70 MPa for Al6061–5SiC-20NSA composites. The tensile strength decreases with increasing NSA content. Fracture analysis indicates ductile fracture mechanisms, supported by FE-SEM images displaying honeycomb-like structures and dimples. Impact testing reveals reduced impact strength in composites compared to Al6061 (26J3), with Al6061–10SiC-5NSA exhibiting the best toughness of 22.5 J3. Density decreases in composites, with density of Al6061–5SiC-20NSA composites has reduced to 2.40 g cm−3. The microhardness of Al6061–10SiC-5NSA has better value of 109 HV, whereas further addition of NSA has resulted in decrease in microhardness of composites. Pin-on-disc wear tests demonstrate improved wear resistance with increased NSA content, with Al6061–5SiC-20NSA outperforming other compositions. COF decreases with increased NSA content and sliding speed. FE-SEM analysis of worn surfaces reveals that the major wear mechanism is adhesive wear followed by delamination, further the oxide formation along the surface aiding wear resistance of the composites. Tafel testing indicates decreased corrosion potential with increased NSA content, with Al6061–5SiC-20NSA exhibiting improved corrosion resistance.

Role of Nanotitania Ceramic Particulate Filler on Mechanical and Wear Behaviour of Dental Composite

Nanotitania is a well-acceptable material in biomedical applications due to its excellent biocompatibility. However, its other performances in terms of physical properties, mechanical properties and specific wear rate have been the keen interest of researchers. The study aims to modify dental composite formulation by adding nanotitania filler in different mass fractions and study to investigate its influence on physical and mechanical properties. A conventional monomer matrix consisting of Bisphenol A-Glycidyl methacrylate (BisGMA), Urethane dimethacrylate (UDMA), Triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA), Camphor Quinone (CO), Ethyl-4-dimethylaminobenzoate (EDMAB) was first added and modified with varying nanotitania filler fractions (0,0.5,1,1.5 wt. %). The performance of newly formulated composites was investigated in four major parameters like apparent porosity, hardness, compressive strength and specific wear rate. All tests are performed as per ISO4049 standard which are requirements for fabrication, characterization, direct/indirect restoration of dental composite, inlays, onlays, veneers, crowns and bridges. Specific wear rate was estimated using pin on disk tribometer under constant load of 20N. Due to its extremely hard and brittle nature, the micro-hardness and compressive strength of resin composite on adding 0.5 wt.-% of nanotitania filler fraction (DC0.5TiO2) were increased by 68% and 16% respectively. Using a pin on disc tribometer, a wear assessment has been performed and it was found that under constant wear parameters and distilled water environmental conditions, the specific wear rate was decreased by 26 % on adding 0.5 wt.-% mass fraction of nanotitania. Nanotitania indicated excellent performance based on mechanical and wear properties and hence, it can be suggested to use nanotitania as a novel filler of dental composite for the replacement of other non-biocompatible ceramic filler.

Comparative evaluation of microstructure & mechanical properties of stir-cast A713/TiB2 & A713/TiB2/Graphene hybrid composites

In this study, Aluminum A713 based composites have been developed by choosing TiB2 and Graphene as reinforcements.The composites are fabricated by using the stir casting technique. The prepared composites were characterized using Optical Microscopy (OM), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS). Tensile strength and microhardness of composites were tested using ASTM standards. The results showed that incorporating TiB2 and Graphene reinforcements into A713 alloy increased its hardness and tensile strength. SEM analysis was employed to evaluate the fracture surfaces and also to identify the impact of TiB2 and Graphene particles.

Barium titanate exposure on metallographic and mechanical performance of coir fiber made low‐density polyethylene composite

AbstractTechnological growth and biodegradable waste natural fibers are significant choices in polymer matrix composite preparation because of their distinct qualities from monopoly matrix. During the fabrication process, the natural fiber faces poor compatibility and lack of adhesive behavior, resulting in reduced tensile strength and stiffness of the composite. The theme of the research is expanding the mechanical behavior of low‐density polyethylene (LDPE) composite by the exposure of sodium hydroxide‐treated coir fiber (CF) and barium titanate (BaTiO3) through an injection molding route. Influences of CF and BaTiO3 on metallographic, tensile, flexural, and impact strength and microhardness of LDPE composite are evaluated, and its outcomes are compared with mono LDPE. The surface morphology of the developed composite is exposed to homogenous dispersion of BaTiO3 with effective adhesive bonding with CF, which facilitates superior mechanical properties. The LDPE hybrid composite consists of 30 wt% CF and 2.5 wt% of BaTiO3 and is exploited about 69 ± 1.5 MPa of tensile strength, 54 ± 0.5 MPa of flexural strength, 4.9 ± 0.01 J of impact energy, and 31 ± 1.5HV of microhardness, this is greater than the mono LDPE (unreinforced). The enriched LDPE hybrid composite is suggested for automotive dashboard applications.

The Effects of Home and Over-The-Counter Whitening Agents on Surface Roughness and Microhardness of High Aesthetic Composites

Objectives: The aim of this in-vitro study is to compare the effect of the newly released peroxide-free over-the-counter whitening products and the home bleaching material containing carbamide peroxide, on high aesthetic composites. Materials and methods: In our study, 4 different composites were used: supra-nano(Tokuyama Estelite Asteria), submicron hybrid(Brilliant Ever Glow), nanofil(Filtek Universal Restorative) and finally nano-ceramic(Ceram.x SphereTEC one). A total of 200 disc-shaped composite specimens with 2 mm thickness and 8 mm diameter were prepared using metal molds(n=10). One surface of the samples was polished using Sof-Lex™ XT discs. Composite groups were divided into 5 subgroups as 4 experimental and 1 control groups. Four bleaching products, namely Opalascence Home Type, Mr. Blanc, I-White, Cali White, were used in the experimental groups. It was kept in a drying oven at 37°C to imitate the temperature of the mouth on certain days and hours in accordance with the instructions written in the whitening products prospectus. The surface roughness of the samples was measured with a profilometer and the microhardness values were measured with a fully automatic Micro Hardness Tester. The surfaces were examined with a Scanning Electron Microscopy. Data were evaluated with two-way Variance Analysis and Tukey Test as statistical methods. Results: According to the surface roughness data, Filtek Universal Restorative's I-White subgroup showed the highest average surface roughness value, and Tokuyama Estelite Asteria's I-White subgroup showed the lowest value. There was a meaningful difference between the composite main groups and the experimental subgroups(p&amp;lt;0.05). According to microhardness data, I-White subgroup of Tokuyama Estelite Asteria showed the highest average microhardness value and the lowest value was Brilliant Ever Glow's I-White subgroup. A meaningful difference was observed between the composite main groups and the experimental subgroups(p&amp;lt;0.05). Although OTC bleaching products did not significantly change the surface roughness and microhardness values of composite resins, when SEM analyzes were examined, it was observed that all OTC bleaching products caused more cleft, crack and defect-like changes on the composite surfaces compared to Opalescence home bleaching agent. Conclusions: It can be stated that Filtek Universal Restorative material is the composite that is most negatively affected by whitening materials, while Tokuyama Estelite Asteria composite is the least affected.

Degradation effects of dietary solvents on microhardness and inorganic elements of computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing dental composites

BackgroundComputer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) dental composites were introduced with superior mechanical properties than conventional dental composites. However, little is known on effects of dietary solvents on microhardness or inorganic elemental composition of CAD/CAM composites.ObjectivesThe objectives of this study were to evaluate the degradation effects of each dietary solvent on the microhardness of the different CAD/CAM dental composites and to observe the degradation effects of dietary solvent on the inorganic elements of the dental composites investigated.MethodsFifty specimens with dimensions 12 mm x 14 mm x 1.5 mm were prepared for direct composite (Filtek Z350 XT [FZ]), indirect composite (Shofu Ceramage [CM]), and three CAD/CAM composites (Lava Ultimate [LU], Cerasmart [CS], and Vita Enamic [VE]). The specimens were randomly divided into 5 groups (n = 10) and conditioned for 1-week at 37°C in the following: air (control), distilled water, 0.02 N citric acid, 0.02 N lactic acid and 50% ethanol-water solution. Subsequently, the specimens were subjected to microhardness test (KHN) using Knoop hardness indenter. Air (control) and representative postconditioning specimens with the lowest mean KHN value for each material were analyzed using energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). Statistical analysis was done using one-way ANOVA and post hoc Bonferroni test at a significance level of p = 0.05.ResultsMean KHN values ranged from 39.7 ± 2.7 kg/mm2 for FZ conditioned in 50% ethanol-water solution to 79.2 ± 3.4 kg/mm2 for VE conditioned in air (control). With exception to LU, significant differences were observed between materials and dietary solvents for other dental composites investigated. EDX showed stable peaks of the inorganic elements between air (control) and representative postconditioning specimens.ConclusionsThe microhardness of dental composites was significantly affected by dietary solvents, except for one CAD/CAM composite [LU]. However, no changes were observed in the inorganic elemental composition of dental composites between air (control) and 1-week postconditioning.

Corrosion inhibition analysis on cerium induced hydrophobic surface of Al-6061/SiC/Al2O3 hybrid composites

A new kind Al-6061/SiC/Al2O3 hybrid composite was prepared with traces amount of cerium oxide and its corrosion performance was evaluated by potentio-dynamic polarization electrochemical method. A new kind of intermetallic (γ-phase) has been observed in the microstructure with higher content of cerium oxide and Al elements. The corrosion resistance of Al-6061 alloy improved with addition of cerium oxide and this improvement could attribute to depression of the micro-galvanic couples. The corrosion rates were observed as 0.16 and 0.034 mpy corresponding to 3.5 and 2.5 wt% of NaCl corresponding to 2.5 wt% of cerium oxide. Moreover, the formation of cerium oxide and Al enrichment film over the surface of hybrid composites was also found to be main key factor for the inhibition of corrosion resistance. Another key factor that inhibits the further corrosion was observed as hydrophobicity between the aluminium liquid matrix and Al2O3/SiC reinforcement after incorporation of cerium oxide. Improvement in hydrophobicity of composites with Al2O3/SiC is due to increase in contact angle up to 100.78° after addition of 2.5 wt% cerium oxide. Micro-hardness and impact strength of the hybrid composites improved significantly after addition of traces amount of REOs from 0.5 to 2.5 wt%.

Effects of TiB2 content on microstructural evolution, microhardness and tribological behaviours of Al matrix composites reinforced with TiB2 particles

In this study, Al2024/TiB2 composites with different TiB2 fractions (5, 10 and 15 vol%) were fabricated by high-energy ball milling and spark plasma sintering. The effects of TiB2 fraction on the microstructure, hardness and wear resistance of the composites were explored to determine the optimal TiB2 content in the composite with optimal properties. An increase in Vickers hardness of the composites correlates with the increased TiB2 content, and the Al2024-15TiB2 composite exhibits the highest hardness. The wear rate of the composite initially increases and then decreases with higher TiB2 content. Notably, the Al2024-10TiB2 composite demonstrates the best wear resistance with a wear rate of 1.14 × 10−4 mm³/Nm, representing a 96.81 % reduction compared to the unreinforced Al2024. The deteriorated wear resistance of the Al2024-15TiB2 composite was attributed to the decreased toughness and severe three-body abrasion caused by the excessive TiB2 particles.

Microhardness measurement optimization in green derived silica/polyester composites using response surface methodology

Polymer composites based on unsaturated polyester resin (UPR) and reinforced with particles based on unmodified/modified plant provenance biosilica particles were synthesized and characterized. An unsaturated polyester resin was obtained from waste poly (ethylene terephthalate (PET). Biosilaca particles are made from rice husk biomass. The surface of the produced silica particles was modified using three different silanes: 3-trimethoxysilylpropyl methacrylate (MEMO), trimethoxyvinylsilane (TMEVS), and 3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (APTMS). The microhardness test method was used to investigate the mechanical properties of synthesized composite material with variations in dwell times and applied loads. Optimization of composite microhardness value prediction in function of synthesized parameters (type of modification of silica particles) and measurement parameters (applied loads and dwell times) was done using the method of response surface methodology (RSM) regression analysis. The maximal microhardness values (0.459 GPa) were obtained of type modification of silica particles with vinyl with 80% confidence for 120 experimental variables. This method can be used to choose the optimal dwell time and load for comparison of measurements between different composite materials and to enable the choice of the material in terms of optimization of the quality of reinforcement and quality of interphase determined by surface modification.

Ispitivanje prianjanja fotopolimerizujućih akrilata ojačanih česticama MgAlLDH@SiO2 na stomatološkoj hromiranoj leguri i na staklu

Polymer resins based on acrylates obtained from Bis-GMA (Bisphenol A glycide methacrylate), which is suitable for photopolymerization, are used in dentistry for various purposes due to the ease of application and the possibility to influence their properties by adding reinforcements of different shapes, crystal structure and chemical compositions. Reinforcement in the form of particles based on MgAlLDH (layered double hydroxide) deposited on silica obtained from rice husks on two substrates. A metal base and glass were used. The adhesive properties are important in order to see the possibility of using these materials in applications. In order to measure the adhesive properties of the material, the composite microhardness measurement method is used by applying different loads in order to evaluate the adhesion parameter that shows the effect of the coating on the substrate. It was compared to how a pure photopolymerizing acrylate matrix bonds with a chromium-based dental alloy substrate that is used in the production of different parts of dentures by bonding to a glass substrate. Then, it was compared how composite materials are bonded to both substrates. Adhesion was monitored through the change in wetting angle between the composites, and the results were compared with the results of microindentation. It was shown that the addition of composite particles increases the adhesive properties of the composite compared to the pure matrix and that better adhesion is achieved between the composite and the metal substrate than between the composite and the glass substrate.

Abrasive resistance and microhardness of self-adhesive (Surefil one) and conventional bulk fill composites: An- in vitro study.

Aims and objectives: To evaluate abrasive resistance and microhardness of self-adhesive Surefil one and conventional bulkfill composites Beautifil bulk restorative and Filtek one bulk fill restorative. Materials and Methods: For the abrasive resistance test, thirty composite discs (4 mm hieght×8 mm width) in each group (n=10) were fabricated. GI: Beautifil bulk restorative, GII: Filtek One Bulk fill restorative and GIII: Surefil one self-adhesive. By placing the material in a mold in a single increment then curing. A custom-made toothbrush simulator was employed for wear testing. The samples weighted before and after the brushing to measure the weight loss. For the microhardness test, thirty cylindrical specimens (6 mm× 8 mm) (n= 10) were fabricated to assess the microhardness, top and bottom surfaces were tested using Vicker Hardness test. The results were analyized with a one-way ANOVA test, the post-hoc comparisons were examined in Tukey test. Results: Abrasive Resistance results, Surefil one (9.52gr) and Beautifil bulk (4.16gr) showed an increase in weight after brushing, while Filtek one bulkfill (-0.85gr) showed a decrease in weight.Microhardness test results, Beautifil bulk showed the highest number of VH (74.83) followed by Surefil one (70.61) and Filtek one bulkfill (62.95). Conclusion: Beautifil bulk was more resistant to abrasion in comparison to Surefil one self-adhesive and One bulk fill. The great weight loss was observed in One bulk fill. Great weight gain was observed in Surefil one self-adhesive. Beautifil bulk showed the highest VH number compare to Surefil one self-adhesive and One bulk fill. Filtek one bulk fill showed low resistance and low hardness number. Keywords: Bulk fill, Self-adhesive, Abrasive resistance, Microhardness Composite, Surefil one

Evaluation of microhardness of short fiber-reinforced composites inside the root canal after different light curing methods – An in vitro study

ObjectivesShort fiber-reinforced composite (SFRC) materials make it possible to reinforce root canal treated teeth with individualized, directly layered intraradicular posts (the Bioblock technique). The question arises, however, as to whether the photopolymerization of the material is sufficient deep within the root canal space and if it can be improved through different light-conducting options. Our study aimed to investigate the hardness of intraradicular SFRC material applied using the Bioblock technique and cured with various illumination methods, as measured through nanoindentation. Materials and methodsFor this investigation, thirty plastic artificial teeth that had undergone root canal treatment were selected. These teeth were randomly divided into six study groups (Group 1–6; each group consisting of 5 teeth). The restoration procedures involved the use of SFRC or conventional composite materials, placed 6 mm apically from the root canal orifice. In Group 1 and 2, a conventional composite was used, whereas in Group 3–6, SFRC was employed for interradicular reinforcement (with a layered technique in Group 3 and 4 and a bulk-fill technique in Group 5 and 6). A modified light source was utilized for photopolymerization in Group 2, 4, and 6, whereas in Group 3 and 5, the polymerization light was directed through a prefabricated glass fiber posts. The control group (Group 1) utilized conventional composite material with a standard light-curing method. Following embedding and sectioning, the hardness of the composite materials was measured at 2 mm intervals within the root canal (1st, 2nd, 3rd measurements, in the coronal to apical direction). ResultsDuring the 1st measurement, light curing conducted through the glass fiber posts (Group 3 and 5) led to markedly higher hardness levels compared to the groups restored with conventional composite (control group with p = 0.002, p = 0.001, and Group 2 with p = 0.043, p = 0.034, respectively). In the 2nd measurement, only Group 5 demonstrated significantly greater hardness in comparison to the control group (p = 0.003) and Group 2 (p = 0.015). However, in the 3rd measurement, no statistically significant differences were observed among the groups. Conclusionlight curing through the glass fiber post provides outstanding hardness for the SFRC material in the apical layer in the root canal.

Friction stir processing of AZ91 hybrid composites with exfoliated multi-layered graphene: A Taguchi-Grey relational analysis

Friction Stir Processing (FSP) involves the use of Silicon Carbide (SiC) and Graphite (Gr) nanoparticles as reinforcements to enhance the properties of AZ91 Mg alloy composites. The relationship between FSP processing parameters and surface properties of Mg alloy composites with SiC and Gr nanoparticles is poorly understood. The present study addresses this and investigates the impact of SiC and Gr volume percentages (%vol), tool traverse speed (TTS), and tool rotational speed (TRS) on the corrosion behavior and microhardness of AZ91 alloy composites. FSP turns graphite into layered graphene, making it more corrosion-resistant and stronger through various strengthening mechanisms. Taguchi optimization yielded optimal settings in runs H7 (1500 rpm-20 mm/min-13 %vol) and H8 (1500 rpm-40 mm/min-7 %vol) for high microhardness and low corrosion rate. Conversely, runs H1 (500 rpm-20 mm/min-7 %vol) and H3 (500 rpm-60 mm/min-13 %vol) resulted in reduced microhardness and increased corrosion rate. Integrating Taguchi and Grey Relational Analysis (GRA) optimized the multi-objective enhancement of microhardness and corrosion resistance, achieving 3rd-level values for TRS, TTS, and %vol. Notably, the reinforcement percentage, followed by TRS and TTS, simultaneously improved these responses.

Advancements in aluminum matrix composites reinforced with carbides and graphene: A comprehensive review

Abstract Automotive and aircraft industries are advancing swiftly, creating a constant need for innovative and trustworthy materials. Aluminum composites (aluminum matrix composites [AMCs]) exhibit enhanced mechanical and tribological behaviors when contrasted to their conventional equivalents and as a result have superior potential to be widely accepted for automotive and aircraft engineering and other component applications. This study aims to provide a thorough and critical analysis of the most recent research initiatives concerning the processing, characteristics, and applications of AMCs. It covers the recent advancements in the aluminum-based composites reinforced with SiC, TiC, and graphene, fabrication methods, and mechanical properties of AMCs. Graphene nanoplatelets are many times stronger and yet lighter than steel and other metals, and thus a good contender for reinforcing them. However, the homogeneous distribution of graphene into the metal or aluminum is a challenging aspect for material researchers. The fabrication techniques for AMCs for achieving homogeneous distribution of graphene are critically reviewed. The mechanical properties, specifically microhardness, wear behavior, and tensile strength of aluminum-based composites, are reviewed and analyzed. Finally, a way forward for fostering further development in this area has been discussed.