Effect of neem seed biochar on the mechanical and wear properties of aluminum metal matrix composites fabricated using stir casting

• Published in: Materials today : proceedings 2022, Vol.56, p.1507-1512
• Main Authors: Jannet, Sabitha, Raja, R., Arumugaprabu, V., Veeresh Kumar, G.B., Vigneshwaran, S., Rama Sreekanth, P.S., Naresh, K.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Biochar; EDAX; FESEM; Green composite; Microhardness; Tensile; Wear rate
• ISSN: 2214-7853; 2214-7853
• DOI: 10.1016/j.matpr.2021.12.572

Several researchers have investigated the possibility of using agricultural wastes as reinforcement in composite production. Among the most investigated industrial and agro wastes that have been used as reinforcing materials in aluminum metal matrix composites (AMMCs) include coal fly ash (FA), red-mud, rice husk ash (RHA), and bagasse ash. Materials with a good strength-to-weight ratio are becoming very essential in modern engineering designs especially for automotive and aircraft applications. AMMCs represent a class of materials that offer a wide range of properties that can measure up with the design requirements of some of the aforementioned applications. In the current study, Aluminum Alloy 6061 - Neem Seed Biochar Metal Matrix Composites (MMCs) was prepared using a conventional stir casting technique. The reinforcement was added in increments of 2.5 up to 7.5 wt%. Various tests, such as tensile, hardness, and wear were conducted. The outcome of the investigation shows that an increase in Neem Seed Biochar reinforcement shows higher hardness and improved wear resistance. The tensile strength is also improved by 18%. The microstructure of the cast samples was analyzed using FESEM, and uniform distribution of particles was determined.