Enhancement of AA5083 matrix composites using nanoscale zirconium carbide for superior mechanical and tribological properties

This research investigated the effect of nanoscale ZrC particles on the mechanical and tribological properties of AA5083 matrix composites. Using a mechanical stirrer, researchers mixed together AA5083 matrix composites with various amounts of nZrC (from 0 to 2.0 wt%). The experimental results demonstrated that the addition of nZrC not only increased the elastic modulus of the material but also led to an enhancement in its brittle behavior, consequently reducing the failure strain significantly. Furthermore, the addition of ZrC exhibited notable improvements in the shear modulus and flexural shear modulus of the composites. Notably, the introduction of nZrC into the AA5083 matrix resulted in reduced subsurface fatigue wear and increased wear resistance, attributed to the beneficial lubricating properties of zirconium carbide. Various tests were conducted to evaluate parameters such as wear, microstructure, morphology, density and voids, hardness, flexural and tensile strength. The results demonstrated that the addition of nZrC led to enhanced wear resistance and tensile strength in the composites. The optimal wear resistance and tensile strength were achieved with the inclusion of 2 wt. % nZrC in the AMMC. Microscopical analysis further revealed a consistent and uniform distribution of ZrC particles throughout the Al matrix, indicating a promising dispersion of the reinforcement material within the composite.