Effect of Nano-ZrO2 Particulates on Wear Characteristics of Al7075 Metal Matrix Composite

Abstract

The demands in application-oriented areas lead to evolution of many light metal alloys which are capable of maintaining strength to weight ratio in an adequate manner. Out of all light metal aluminium alloys plays a vital role with the addition of hard ceramic particulates. In this view an attempt has been made to synthesis the aluminium nano composites with the addition of ZrO2 with a particle size of 80nm by using stir casting methodology by adopting specific working environment using argon gas supply. The addition of ceramic particles found uniform in distribution wise. The specimens are subjected to dry sliding wear test using Ducom wear test equipment which results in significant improvement in the resistance for wear. The composite was prepared for 0.75, 1.00, 1.25, 1.50, 1.75 and 2.00 wt.% addition of reinforcement. As % of addition of reinforcement the wear rate is gradually decreasing, the worn-out surfaces are subjected to SEM analysis after wear testing.