Synthesis and Characterization of Silicon Nitride Reinforced Al-Mg-Zn Alloy Composites

In this work, aluminium metal matrix composite reinforced with hard silicon nitride (Si3N4) particles have been performed experimentally. Squeeze casting technique was adopted to synthesis the novel AMMC for different weight fractions of Si3N4 (3, 6 and 9%). The AMMC is characterized for their tensile strength, micro-Vickers, density and porosity, compressive strength, impact, corrosion and wear resistance, as per ASTM standards. Observation shows that, with the inclusion of Si3N4 particle, the mechanical behaviour, corrosion and wear-resistant of synthesized composites was considerably improved. Scanning Electron microscope micrograph of worn surfaces displays the presence of grooves parallel to the sliding direction and some plastic deformations. The inclusion of Si3N4 shows deep grooving, that is associated with abrasive wear.

Automated summary

In this study, aluminium metal matrix composite reinforced with hard silicon nitride (Si3N4) particles was experimentally synthesized using squeeze casting technique. The inclusion of Si3N4 significantly improved the mechanical behavior, corrosion resistance, and wear resistance of the synthesized composites, as observed through various tests. Scanning Electron microscope micrograph of worn surfaces revealed deep grooving associated with abrasive wear due to the presence of Si3N4.