Effect of Necklace-Type Distribution of SiC Particles on Dry Sliding Wear Behavior of As-Cast AZ91D/SiCp Composites

Abstract

In this study, the dry sliding wear behaviors of SiC particle reinforced AZ91D matrix composites fabricated by stirring casting method were systematically investigated. The SiC particles in as-cast composites exhibited typical necklace-type distribution, which caused the weak interface bonding between SiC particles and matrix in particle-segregated zones. During dry sliding at higher applied loads, SiC particles were easy to debond from the matrix, which accelerated the wear rates of the composites. While at the lower load of 10 N, the presence of SiC particles improved the wear resistance. Moreover, the necklace-type distribution became more evident with the decrease of particle sizes and the increase of SiC volume fractions. Larger particles had better interface bonding with the matrix, which could delay the transition of wear mechanism from oxidation to delamination. Therefore, composites reinforced by larger SiC particles exhibited higher wear resistance. Similarly, owing to more weak interfaces in the composites with high content of SiC particles, more severe delamination occurred and the wear resistance of the composites was impaired.