Fabrication and Characterization of AA6063/B4C Metal Matrix Surface Nanocomposite Using Friction Stir Processing

In development of nanocomposite the aims of the present work is to formation of Self-assembled monolayer (SAM) of boron carbide over the surface of AA6063 using via Friction stir processing (FSP). Boron Carbide nano-particle is bonded over the surface of AA6063 followed by FSP technique. To ensure uniform distribution of nanoparticle reinforcement in the grooves a 0.5 molar solution was prepared by dissolving 0.138 g of B 4 C in 5 ml of diethyl ether (DEE) with enhanced surface and mechanical properties. Two passes on both specimens were performed using the same tool with the tool rotational and traverse speed as 1000 rpm and 40 mm s −1 respectively. For minimizing defects a square tool pin profile with pin length of 3.5 mm and 7.2 mm diagonal. The resultant specimens are studied for the significant changes in tensile strength, ductility, hardness and wear properties due to the addition of reinforcement material and refinement of grain structure. The microstructural graphs supported by SEM and EDS analysis were focused upon to study the composition of nanocomposite prepared. The nanocomposite and FSPed specimen showed an increase in hardness by more than two folds with a negligible decrease in ductility and an appreciable improvement in wear resistance.