Scientists from Tomsk Polytechnic University (TPU) have developed a unique method for producing high-hardness metal matrix composites. The new approach makes it possible to create materials that are four times harder than analogues, which opens up prospects for their use in the aviation and automotive industries.
Aluminum matrix metal matrix composites are widely used in the aviation and automotive industries today due to their lightness, strength, and corrosion resistance. However, traditional methods for the production of such materials (ex-situ) often lead to a decrease in their physical and mechanical properties due to the formation of porosity and recrystallization.
TPU scientists proposed an innovative approach based on in-situ technology, which makes it possible to combine a metal matrix and a ceramic reinforcing component in a single process. This eliminates the formation of pores and ensures uniform distribution of micro- and nano-sized particles of tungsten, silicon and boron carbides in the aluminum matrix.
“The uniqueness of our method lies in the fact that reinforcing particles are introduced into the metal matrix during treatment with pulsed arc discharge plasma. This ensures a high degree of compaction (up to 99%) and improved mechanical properties,” explains TPU Associate Professor Dmitry Nikitin.
Tests have shown that the new composites have a hardness in the range of 103-215 HV, which is four times higher than that of analogues (47-62 HV). This makes them promising for use in the production of brake discs, pistons, and aircraft structural elements.
The development of TPU scientists opens up new opportunities for creating highly efficient composite materials that can be used in aviation, automotive and other industries. The research results were published in the journal *Ceramics International* (Q1, IF: 5.1) and supported by a grant from the Russian Science Foundation.
Source: naked-science.ru
Photo: TPU Press Service
