Effect of SiC and MoS2 Co-reinforcement on Enhancing the Tribological and Anti-Corrosive Performance of Aluminum Matrix (Al6063-T6) Nanocomposites.

Particulate reinforced aluminium matrix composites (AMCs) were prepared by stir cast method and their wear and corrosion properties were investigated. The structural and morphological properties of the AMCs were examined by XRD and SEM analysis. EPMA validates the dispersion of SiC and MoS₂ particles in the metal matrix. The wear of the aluminium alloy Al6063-T6(AM-0), 3% nano SiC reinforced composite(AMC-1) and 3% nano SiC with 3% micro MoS₂ reinforced composite (AMC-2) were studied using ASTM G99–95 standard. The wear rates of AMC- 1 and AMC-2 were relatively lesser than that of AM-0 at all applied loads of 10 N, 20 N and 30 N. However, the friction coefficients of the AMCs were found to be higher than that of AM-0. Particulates micro fracture is found to be the predominant wear mechanism associated with 3 body abrasive wear as indicated by the SEM micrographs of the worn out surfaces. ASTM-B117 has been used to find out the effect of micro-constituents on the corrosion behaviour of AMC-1 and AMC-2 composites. The significant improvements in the corrosion resistance was observed in AMC-2 due to SiC and MoS₂ reinforcement. The SEM images of corroded surfaces of the composite illustrate formation of productive layer for reducing the corrosion rate of the composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]