Microstructure and mechanical behaviour of RHA and B₄C reinforced aluminium alloy hybrid metal matrix composite

Abstract

Mechanical stir casting process was used to fabricate AA6082 matrix reinforced with various weight fraction of B₄C (2.5% to 10%) and RHA (2.5% to 10%) particulates with various proportions. Microstructures and mechanical behaviour of metal matrix composite and hybrid metal matrix composite were observed. A metallurgical microscope was used to identify the distribution of reinforcements (B₄C and RHA) in matrix. Fair distribution was observed in AA6082/7.5%B₄C/<br /> 2.5%RHA. The results revealed that tensile strength, hardness and toughness were maximum in AA6082/7.5%B₄C/2.5% RHA. Other properties like density, porosity, specific strength and thermal expansion were also calculated to observe the effect of B₄C and RHA addition in matrix alloy.