Improving reciprocal tribo-mechanical performance and corrosion resistance using carbide ceramics: T6 thermal-treated A333 mono-hybrid functionally graded composites

Thermally treated functionally graded aluminum hybrid composite is an innovative solution to the expanding mechanical and tribological needs of the marine industry. Through horizontal centrifugal casting, gradation of secondary (SiC) and primary (B4C) ceramics improves the reciprocal wear resistance of 6 wt%B4C/4 wt%SiC/A333 hybrid composite over 6 wt%B4C/A333 mono-composite and A333 alloy. Advanced characterization demonstrates the change in grain size and detects strengthening phases. When using a hybrid ceramic reinforcement, the microhardness and tensile strength improved by 41% and 23%, respectively, while only increasing by 12% and 10% when using a mono ceramic reinforcement. Also, hybrid and mono ceramic reinforcement reduced the wear rate by 68% and 46%, respectively. An electrochemical corrosion analysis of a saline-exposed hybrid composite showed minimal surface oxidation and pitting, making it suitable for marine tribology applications.(c) 2023 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.