Effect of B 4 C particle reinforcement on the various properties of aluminium matrix composites: a survey paper

Metal matrix composites (MMCs) possess significantly improved properties including high specific strength, damping capacity, specific modulus and good wear resistance compared to unreinforced alloys. There has been an increasing interest in composites containing low density and cost reinforcements also their ability to be produced by conventional methods adds to the advantage. Aluminium matrix can be strengthened by reinforcing it with hard ceramic particles like SiC, Al2O3 and B4C, etc. This paper presents an overview of the effect of on B4C addition as reinforcement in aluminium alloy highlighting their merits and demerits. Major issues like, fiber-matrix bonding, agglomerating phenomenon and the problems related to distribution of particles is discussed in this paper. Effect of B4C reinforcement on AMCs mechanical properties like tensile strength, strain, hardness, wear and fatigue is also discussed in detail.