Synthesis and Evaluation of Mechanical Properties of Nano TiO₂ Reinforced Aluminium Metal Matrix Nano Composites (MMNCs)

Abstract

In the present investigation, aluminium Metal Matrix Composites (MMCs) were synthesized by reinforcing nano TiO₂ particles at varying weight percentages (0.5 ,1.5,2.5 and 3.5 wt%) into an AA6061 molten aluminium matrix using the stir casting method. The synthesized composites were characterized using optical microscopic analysis, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X- ray diffraction (XRD). The hardness and tensile properties of the composites were evaluated. The analysis of mechanical properties revealed that the T6 composite containing 0.5 wt% nano TiO₂ particles had a maximum hardness of 79.6 BHN compared to other T6 samples and as well as ac-cast samples. Ultimate tensile strength and yield strength of T6 composite containing 0.5 wt% TiO₂ was found to be (180 MPa and 135 MPa) higher than other T6 composites and as cast samples. Fractography of Al MMC containing 0.5 wt% nano TiO₂ particles revealed ductile -brittle fracture mode in the T6 condition.

Keywords:
Al MMC; Nano TiO₂ particles; Weight percentage (wt%); Heterogenous nucleation sites; Grain refinement; Wettability; Fractography