Enhancing Mechanical and Tribological Properties of AA6063 Matrix Composites Through Nanoscale Boron Carbide Reinforcement

Abstract

In this study, an investigation was conducted to assess the influence of nanoscale boron carbide (nB 4 C) particles on the mechanical and tribological properties of AA6063 matrix composites. Using a mechanical stirrer, researchers mixed together AA6063 matrix composites with various amounts of nB 4 C (from 0 to 2.0 wt.%). The experimental results demonstrated that the addition of nB 4 C not only increased the elastic modulus of the material but also led to an enhancement in its brittle behavior, consequently reducing the failure strain significantly. Furthermore, the addition of nB 4 C exhibited notable improvements in the shear modulus and flexural shear modulus of the composites. Notably, the introduction of nB 4 C into the AA6063 matrix resulted in reduced subsurface fatigue wear and increased wear resistance, attributed to the beneficial lubricating properties of B 4 C. Various tests were conducted to evaluate parameters such as wear, micro-structure, morphology, density and voids, hardness, flexural and tensile strength. The results indicated that the addition of nB 4 C led to enhanced wear resistance and tensile strength in the composites. Specifically, the highest wear resistance and tensile strength were achieved with the inclusion of 2 wt.% nB 4 C in the aluminum (Al) metal matrix composite. Microscopical analysis further revealed a consistent and uniform distribution of B 4 C particles throughout the Al matrix, indicating a promising dispersion of the reinforcement material within the composite.