Evaluation of susceptor-assisted microwave-sintering-produced Al-Y2O3 composite material's compression and reciprocating wear performance

Abstract

Abstract The manufacturing of a composite material out of aluminium (Al) and yttrium oxide (Y2O3) was achieved via the use of the microwave hybrid sintering method, which is an energy-efficient and eco-friendly production process. Compression and dry reciprocating wear tests are conducted on the manufactured material to learn more about the function of reinforcing particles in composites. The exothermic temperature marginally shifts (1 °C) when Y2O3 reinforcement is added to the Al matrix. The average micro hardness of composites with 2 wt.% Y2O3 is 43 Hv, which is an improvement over the previous value of 36 Hv. In addition, the composite material’s compressive strength improved by 38.78% in comparison to that of Al. In a dry reciprocating wear test, the composite material with 2 wt% Y2O3 nanoparticle showed a reduction in mass loss of 20%. The even distribution of reinforcing components throughout the material and the advent of intermetallic Al3Y in composites are likely responsible for this.