Development of Al–SiC–TiO2 hybrid composite using powder metallurgy route and the influence of TiO2 content variation on microstructure and mechanical properties

Abstract

Abstract In the present study, aluminum matrix was reinforced with SiC and TiO2 powders to synthesize Al–SiC–TiO2 hybrid composites by using a powder metallurgy route. The influence of variation in TiO2 content is thoroughly evaluated over the microstructure and mechanical properties. The uniform distribution and growth in the interfacial bonding between the matrix phase and reinforcement particles were confirmed from the overall scanning electron micrographs. Further, the measured hardness and density values significantly increased with the increase in TiO2 content. In addition to that, the compressive strength had increased up to 5 wt.% of TiO2. However, at higher content of TiO2, a decreasing trend is found due to the excess cluster formation.