WEAR CHARACTERISTICS OF ALUMINUM MATRIX NANOCOMPOSITES WITH Ce-TZP/Al_2O_3 NANOCOMPOSITE PRODUCED BY POWDER METALLURGY AT DIFFERENT SINTERING TEMPERATURES

摘要

In this work the effects of sintering temperature on the hardness, friction and wear characteristics of Al-10Ce-TZP/Al_2O_3 composites have been investigated. Aluminum and Ce-TZP/Al_2O_3 nanocomposite were selected as raw materials. Ce-TZP/Al_2O_3 nanocomposites were synthesized by the aqueous combustion method. 7 wt. % 10Ce-TZP/Al_2O_3 composites in the form of cylindrical samples were prepared at the sintering temperatures of 400,450 and 500°C under an applied pressure of 600 MPa for 60 min. Wear tests were carried out using the pin-on-disk method under normal loads of 10 and 20 Kgf at constant sliding velocity of 0.25 m/s. The surfaces of the worn nanocomposite were examined by scanning electron microscopy to study the topographical features and to aid elucidation of the wear mechanisms. The experimental results show that the distribution of Ce-TZP/Al_2O_3 nanocomposite into the metal matrix is homogenous and that at 450°C the hardness and wear resistance improved considerably.