Study of mechanical and tribological behaviour of Al/SiC/ZrO₂ hybrid composites fabricated through powder metallurgy technique

In this experimental investigation, the mechanical and tribological behaviour of aluminium (Al)-based silicon carbide (SiC, microparticles) and zirconium oxide (ZrO₂, nanoparticles) particle-reinforced hybrid composites were investigated. The contents of ZrO₂ (0, 3%, 6% and 9%, weight fraction) were added to Al–5%SiC composites by powder metallurgy (PM) technique. An x-ray diffractometer (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive spectrum (EDS) and elemental mapping were used for characterization of composites. Elemental mapping of the composites showed uniform distribution of SiC and ZrO₂ in the matrix. The wear test was conducted using a pin-on-disc apparatus with various input parameters like sliding distance (300, 500, 700 and 900 m), sliding speed (1, 1.5, 2 and 2.5 m s⁻¹) and applied load (20, 30 and 40 N). The hardness and wear resistance of the Al  +  SiC  +  ZrO₂ hybrid composites were found to be increased by increasing ZrO₂ content. The worn surface of hybrid composites and pure aluminium were analyzed through SEM to understand the wear mechanism. (paper)