Enhancing Mechanical and Tribological Properties of AA6063 Matrix Composites Through Nanoscale Boron Carbide Reinforcement

In this study, an investigation was conducted to assess the influence of nanoscale boron carbide (nB 4 C) particles on the mechanical and tribological properties of AA6063 matrix composites. Using a mechanical stirrer, researchers mixed together AA6063 matrix composites with various amounts of nB 4 C (from 0 to 2.0 wt.%). The experimental results demonstrated that the addition of nB 4 C not only increased the elastic modulus of the material but also led to an enhancement in its brittle behavior, consequently reducing the failure strain significantly. Furthermore, the addition of nB 4 C exhibited notable improvements in the shear modulus and flexural shear modulus of the composites. Notably, the introduction of nB 4 C into the AA6063 matrix resulted in reduced subsurface fatigue wear and increased wear resistance, attributed to the beneficial lubricating properties of B 4 C. Various tests were conducted to evaluate parameters such as wear, micro-structure, morphology, density and voids, hardness, flexural and tensile strength. The results indicated that the addition of nB 4 C led to enhanced wear resistance and tensile strength in the composites. Specifically, the highest wear resistance and tensile strength were achieved with the inclusion of 2 wt.% nB 4 C in the aluminum (Al) metal matrix composite. Microscopical analysis further revealed a consistent and uniform distribution of B 4 C particles throughout the Al matrix, indicating a promising dispersion of the reinforcement material within the composite.