Fabrication and Characterization of SiC, Al2O3 and B4C Reinforced Al-Zn-Mg-Cu Alloy (AA 7075) Metal Matrix Composites: A Study

Abstract

The paper presents the results of experimental investigation on the characterization and analysis of mechanical properties of composites formed. Three aluminum metal matrix composites reinforced with 10 wt% of B4C, SiC and Al2O3 particles were processed. The stir casting method followed by hot rolling was used for fabrications of aluminium 7075 metal matrix composites, being one of the cost effective industrial methods. Experimental results show nearly a uniform distribution and good dispersion of reinforced particles within aluminium matrix. Both tensile strength and hardness are enhanced by incorporation of reinforcement particles into the matrix. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis was done to study the good dispersion of particles and surface characteristics.