Study on microstructure and mechanical properties of hybrid aluminium matrix composite with ZrO₂ and Ni particle as reinforcement fabricated through FSP route

An attempt was made to develop AA6063matrix composites (AMCs) using ZrO2 and nickel particles (with different wt.%) as reinforcement through the friction stir processing (FSP) route. Microstructural features of AMCs revealed equiaxed refined grains due to dynamic recrystallization and pinning effect. Phase analysis revealed absence of deleterious intermetallics. Maximum improvement in microhardness and ultimate tensile strength was 58.1% and 80% respectively in AMCs made with 12% ZrO2 while ductility was decreased by 60% compared to the base material. Ductility of AMCs was improved as the percentage of Nickel increased, while tensile strength decreased by small value. AMCs with 6 % ZrO2 + 6 % Ni were found to bring balance in tensile strength and ductility with percentage improvement of 59 and 15%, respectively compared to the base material. It also showed an increment in density by 20%.