Influence of TiC nano‐particulates on the physical and mechanical properties of AA7150‐TiC MMC: Fabricated by advanced novel process

Abstract

TiC np reinforced AA7150 nanocomposites were prepared through a novel fabrication process (a combination of Vortex/Two-step Stir Casting/Ultrasonication). The effect of TiC np (0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 wt.%) and ultrasonication on both microstructure behavior as well as mechanical properties were investigated at room temperature. Microstructural studies were analyzed through optical and scanning electron microscopy for grain size refinement, nanoparticle distribution and failure analysis. Grain refinement and homogeneous distribution of nanoparticles were achieved due to the ultrasonication effect. The mechanical properties increase with the increase of TiC np wt.%. The optimal peak value at 175 MPa in tensile strength, 177.05 HV in microhardness, and 41.07 µm in grain size reduction were achieved at 1.5 wt.% of TiC np content, which was around 48.31% and 17.4% enhanced in strength, in microhardness and 52.37% in grain size reduction. These peculiar achievements resulted from the homogeneous dispersion of TiC nano-particulates in the nanocomposite material through a novel fabrication process.