The influence of ZrO2 on tribological and mechanical characteristics of Al composite

Metal matrix composites based on aluminium alloys are emerging for industrial applications where a high strength to weight ratio is required. In this work, a reinforced composite made of an aluminium alloy matrix grade 7010 with zirconium dioxide is developed. Utilizing the stir casting technique, zirconium dioxide is used as reinforcement in composite materials at weight percentages of 2 percent, 4 percent and 6 percent. The composite's mechanical and metallurgical characteristics are examined. SEM and EDS image demonstrating the homogeneous dispersion of the particles inside the matrix alloy. Ceramic particle addition increases material hardness by limiting alloy matrix dislocation. Tensile tests show that adding zirconium dioxide particles increases the material's strength. The Al7010/6% zirconium dioxide composite's ultimate strength (UTS) was 255 MPa, 26% higher than the Al7010 alloy's UTS, and the Brinell hardness of Al7010/6% is 93 BHN, which is 46% higher than the base alloy. Using a pin-on-disc wear testing system, the dry sliding wear behaviour of the Al7010/2 to 6 wt% zirconium dioxide composite is studied at ambient temperature. The prepared samples wear behaviour was evaluated under various weights and speeds. Compared to the base matrix alloy Al7010, the composites showed greater wear resistance.