Hybrid aluminium matrix composites containing boron carbide and quasicrystals: Manufacturing and characterisation

Hybrid composites of boron carbide (B 4 C) and Al 62.5 Cu 25 Fe 12.5 quasicrystals (QCs) were prepared by ball milling and pressureless sintering in aluminium matrix to investigate their individual and hybrid effects on microstructural and mechanical properties. Hybrid composite contained B 4 C and QCs in 3 wt-% each, making a total of 6 wt-%. For reference, specimens of pure aluminium and two composites containing 6 wt-%B 4 C and 6 wt-% QCs were prepared. Microstructural characterisation was performed using optical, scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction, while evaluation of mechanical properties was carried out by hardness and compression tests. Uniform dispersion of reinforcements in composites was observed along with significant increase in the mechanical properties. The composite containing 6 wt-% QCs demonstrated the highest hardness, while the hybrid composite showed better compressive properties.