Effect of T6 Tempering on the Wear and Corrosive Properties of Graphene and B4C Reinforced Al6061 Matrix Composites
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: This research study aims to evaluate the wear and corrosive behaviour of aluminum 6061 alloy hybrid metal matrix composites after reinforcing them with graphene (0.5, 1 wt.%) and boron carbide (6 wt.%) at varying weight percentages. The hybrid composites were processed through ball milling and powder compaction, followed by a microwave sintering process, and T6 temper heat treatment was carried out to improve the properties. The properties were evaluated and analyzed using FE-SEM, Pin-on-Disc tribometer, surface roughness, salt spray test, and electrochemical tests. The results were evaluated prior to and subsequent to the T6 heat-treatment conditions. The T6 tempered sample S1 (Al6061-0.5% Gr-6% B4C) exhibits a wear rate of 0.00107 mm3/Nm at 10 N and 0.00127 mm3/Nm at 20 N for 0.5 m/s sliding velocity. When the sliding velocity is 1 m/s, the wear rate is 0.00137 mm3/Nm at 10 N and 0.00187 mm3/Nm at 20 N load conditions. From the Tafel polarization results, the as-fabricated (F) condition demonstrates an Ecorr of −0.789 and an Icorr of 3.592 µA/cm2 and a corrosion rate of 0.039 mm/year. Transitioning to the T6 condition further decreases Icorr to 2.514 µA/cm2, Ecorr value of −0.814, and the corrosion rate to 0.027 mm/year. The results show that an increase in the addition of graphene wt.% from 0.5 to 1 to the Al 6061 alloy matrix deteriorated the wear and corrosive properties of the hybrid matrix composites.
DOI: 10.3390/jmmp9030082
Institution: Vellore Institute of Technology University
Language: English
Subfield: Mechanical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,172
OpenAlex ID: W4408161108