Fabrication of aluminium matrix hybrid composites reinforced with SiC microparticles and TiB2 nanoparticles by powder metallurgy

In this study, aluminium matrix hybrid composites (AMHCs) containing 10 wt-% SiC microparticles and x wt-% TiB2 (x = 1, 3 and 5) nanoparticles were fabricated by powder metallurgy. The effect of TiB2 content on microstructure and mechanical properties were examined by a combination of scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and tension tests. The results showed that mechanical properties of the hybrid composites were improved with increasing the content of TiB2 nanoparticles. Compared to aluminium matrix composites reinforced with mono SiC microparticles, the ultimate tensile strength and yield strength of the AMHCs with additional 5 wt-% TiB2 nanoparticles were increased by 64 and 23%, respectively. Based on the fractographs, the relevant fracture mechanism was also discussed.