Fatigue, wear, and mechanical behaviour of nano SiC and RHA biomass Si 3 N 4 -aluminium 2024 metal matrix composites: a concept of biomass conversion to energy

This study is showing the performance of two different silicon-based nano material acting as possible nanofiller in aluminium alloy metal matrix composites. The major objective of this research was to examine the effectiveness of both the fillers in tribo-mechanical behaviour and their influence in microstructure when they are reinforced into the aluminium matrix. The Si 3 N 4 fine particles are produced from rice husk ash by carbothermal reduction and nitridation (CTRN) whereas the SiC particles utilised here were as-received. The composites of aluminium with variable proportion of nanofillers were produced by stir casting method. The samples were characterised using ASTM standards. According to the results, the addition of SiC particles enhanced the density and wear resistance whereas the addition of Si 3 N 4 improved the fatigue and mechanical characteristics with smaller density gain. The microstructure of aluminium indicated fine incorporation of Si 3 N 4 than SiC in Al matrix. The fine precipitates were shown for the increase of strength in composite. These plant waste generated silicon-based fillers may be a great alternative for existing fillers like SiC, SiO 2 , CBN, B 4 C, and WC and therefore enhanced the circular economy and waste-derived economy.