Effect of Al2O3 nanoparticles on tribological behaviour of Mg-6Al alloy-based nanocomposites

This paper investigates the tribological properties of Mg-6Al alloy-based nanocomposites reinforced with nano-size alumina nanoparticles. Dry sliding wear tests were performed in the pin-on-disc arrangement opposite to a D2 steel counterface under various sliding velocities 0.8-2.0 m/s with 10 N, 30 N and 60 N normal loads at room temperatures. The variations in volumetric wear rate and friction coefficient with the sliding distances 300 m for different normal loads and sliding velocities were analysed. The worn pins and wear debris were then examined to reveal its wear features using a field emission scanning electron microscopy. The outcomes of the study reveal that there is a gradual decrease in wear rates with sliding speeds under all load conditions. The values of friction coefficient for nanocomposites varies between 0.15-0.23 and reaches minimums at 2.0 m/s under 10 N and 1.8 m/s under 30 N and 60 N load.