Synthesis Of Aluminium-Boron Carbide-Graphene Hybrid Composites Prepared Through Friction Stir Processing (FSP)

Abstract

Aluminium, known for its light weight, conductivity, and corrosion resistance, is a versatile material used across various industries, including aerospace, construction, and marine. Its alloys are especially valued in the automotive and aerospace sectors for their superior mechanical properties, low density, and corrosion resistance compared to traditional metals. The incorporation of hybrid composites can enhance these properties further. This study investigates the synthesis and mechanical behavior of aluminium-boron carbide-graphene hybrid composites produced through Friction Stir Processing (FSP). Specifically, the research explores aluminium 7050 alloy composites with varying ratios of boron carbide (B4C) and graphene, including compositions of 30% B4C & 70% graphene, 40% B4C & 60% graphene, 50% B4C & 50% graphene, 60% B4C & 40% graphene, and a control with 0% B4C & 0% graphene. The mechanical properties—tensile strength, impact strength, and hardness—of these composites were evaluated. Results indicate that the composite with 40% B4C and 60% graphene significantly enhanced tensile strength, increasing from 152 MPa to 248 MPa, a 63% improvement over the base material. Impact strength also saw a notable increase from 0.0275 to 0.0303, representing a 101.8% enhancement. Additionally, the composite with 60% B4C and 40% graphene demonstrated a substantial increase in hardness, rising from 85.9 BHN to 223.7 BHN, a 160.41% improvement. These findings suggest that the optimal combination of B4C and graphene can markedly improve the mechanical properties of aluminium matrix composites, making them suitable for advanced engineering applications.