Investigation on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Stir-Cast A713 – TiB2 – Graphene Hybrid Composites

Abstract

This investigation focuses on the microstructure characterization as well as the mechanical properties of A713 matrix composites reinforced with TiB₂ and graphene particles. The A713 – TiB₂ – graphene composites are made using the stir casting process. The particle reinforcement with graphene (0.5 wt.%) is maintained, whereas the reinforcement with TiB₂ (2%, 4%, and 6 wt.%) is varied for fabrication of the composites. Optical micrographs, x-ray diffractometry and scanning electron microscopy are used to analyze the microstructure of the composites. The mechanical properties of the composites are analyzed by measuring their hardness and tensile strength. A fractured tensile test specimen is subjected to a SEM analysis to analyze the fracture mechanism.