Study on Al/TiB2 functionally graded metal matrix composites

Abstract The present work demonstrates the processing and characterization of AA6061-5 wt% TiB2 Titanium Diboride (TiB2) functionally graded metal matrix composites (FGMMCs) processed via in-situ chemical route followed by centrifugal casting technique (CCT). Microstructural analysis of the cast cylinder confirmed the presence of TiB2 particles in outer region of the cylinder and a gradient distribution of TiB2 particles was observed in the casting. FGMMCs exhibit 36% of variation in microhardness value from outer to inner region and increase of 15% in comparison with homogeneous composites. Result revealed that outer surface exhibit high wear resistance, credited to increase in volume fraction of TiB2 particles due to centrifugal force. Dimensional stability of the outer surface was found more than that of inner surface. It is due to lower CTE of the TiB2 nanoparticles present in the outer region.