The influence of tin addition on the microstructure and properties of ZrO۲-Al۲O۳ reinforced aluminum composites

This research evaluated the impact of tin addition on the particle-matrix interface, wear properties, and hardness of A۳۵۶ aluminum alloy reinforced with Al۲O۳ and ZrO۲ particles. Initially, ۰.۵ wt% Sn was added to the A۳۵۶ alloy using a semi-solid stirring casting method. Subsequently, a weighed amount of Al۲O۳ and ZrO۲ particles was added to the molten alloy while rotating at ۶۰۰ rpm. After ۱۰ minutes, the melt was cast into a graphite mold. Microstructural analysis was conducted using a scanning electron microscope. The results showed that tin was rejected to the particle-matrix interface region during cooling, which resulted in better interface bonding. Pin-on-disk tests showed that the composite’s wear resistance increased, and the friction coefficient decreased with the addition of Sn. The wear mechanism changed from adhesive to adhesive-abrasive, which was in good agreement with the increase in hardness of the composite according to Archard’s relation.

کلیدواژه ها:

Aluminum ، Composite ، Hybrid ، Microstructure ، Wear ، Tin