Experimental study of ZrB2-Si3N4 on the microstructure, mechanical and electrical properties of high grade AA8011 metal matrix composites

The present study evaluates the hybrid effect of ZrB2-Si3N4 on the properties of AA8011 metal matrix composites (AMMCs) developed by two steps stir casting process. The percentage of reinforcement varies from 0% to 20% weight. The microstructure, hardness, ultimate tensile strength, yield strength, electrical resistivity, and conductivity were examined. From the results, it was revealed that the mechanical properties of the reinforced alloy are well improved compared to the unreinforced alloy. The optical micrograph and the scanning electron micrograph images with energy dispersive spectroscopy show the uniform distribution of the hybrid particulates of ZrB2-Si3N4 with no visible porosity. The electrical resistivity of the developed AA8011 composites was also improved with the increase in weight percent of the ceramic particulates, but the electrical conductivity was drastically reduced. (C) 2019 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.