Investigation of hybrid copper surface composite synthesized via FSP

ABSTRACT

Fabrication of a copper Metal Matrix Surface Composite (MMSC) via Friction Stir Processing (FSP) is discussed in this research, wherein Titanium Dioxide (TiO₂) and Alumina hybrid particles (Al₂O₃) were dispersed onto copper surface. TiO₂ and Al₂O₃ blended in equal proportion were compacted onto the grooves for friction stir processing at varying volume fractions i.e. 5, 10 and 15 volume percentages. The presence of reinforcement particles were observed through scanning electron micrographs and excellent bonding with reinforcements and copper were also spotted. Mechanical properties including tensile strength and micro hardness showcased an incremental drift with the introduction of reinforcement. Fracture surface studies proved the ductile nature of the fabricated surface composites. Studies on wear properties stated that the occurrence of these hybrid particles can enhance wear resistance of substrate metal. Wear morphology of worn-out surfaces approves with the above conclusion.

KEYWORDS:

• Friction
• stir
• processing
• FSP
• copper
• surface
• composites
• hybrid
• reinforcement
• characterization

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to recognize the services provided by the Vigshan Tools, Coimbatore and Centre for Research in Metallurgy, Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, India, for carrying out this research work.