Fabrication, characterization and optimal selection of aluminium alloy 8011 composites reinforced with B 4 C-aloe vera ash

Abstract

Abstract The aim  of this study is to determine the use of B 4 C along with AVA as economical reinforcements to improve the mechanical properties of aluminium alloy 8011. The purpose of this investigation is the development of cost-effective hybrid metal matrix composites. The present investigation assessed the mechanical characteristics of Al-8011 alloy, Al-8011/3AVA, Al-8011/4B 4 C, Al-8011/2.5B 4 C/2.5AVA, and Al-8011/3B 4 C/3AVA composites, which were manufactured through stir-casting techniques. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) imaging with an energy-dispersive spectroscope (EDS) was performed on the fabricated composites to confirm the presence of reinforcements, and the images revealed a uniform distribution of reinforcements in the matrix. The density of the composite decreased with an increase in weight % of AVA-B 4 C in comparison with that of matrix aluminum alloy 8011. Results obtained for tensile strength and hardness exhibit the optimal results from adding 3 wt.% B 4 C with 3 wt.% AVA. The present paper also investigates the application of three multiple criteria decision-making (MCDM) methodological approaches to select the best option.