CHAPTER 2

LITERATURE REVIEW

The purpose of this literature review is to present the key results of some of the most
relevant research in the area of composite materials. The sustained interest to develop
engineering materials which could cope with the raised performance standards, resulted in
emergence of a newer class of materials, called Metal Matrix Composites (MMCs). They
constitute a family of customizable materials with customizable critical-property
relationships. Such materials are known for their exceptional high modulus, stiffness,
wear resistance, fatigue life, strength-to-weight ratios, tolerable coefficient of thermal
expansion, etc. With these enhancements in properties, they pose for strong candidature
for replacing conventional structural materials. But what makes them stand apart is the
ability to customize their properties to suit the service requirement. Such advantages have
made this group of materials a nice pick for use in weight-sensitive and stiffness-critical
components in transportation systems.

2.1 Previous investigations in aluminium alloy composite

Cui Y Geng [1] investigated that, an aluminium matrix composite was
successfully obtained using the self- propagating high temperature SiC particulates as
reinforcement material. The composite was found to be superior in mechanical
performances to those of the composite reinforce with the conventional abrasive grade
Sic particulates. High interfacial bond strength was observed between SiC and
aluminium matrix. The interfacial bond strength was attributed the effective
mechanical keying role and the atom match bonding with a crystallographic orientation
relationship.
Choon Weng wong et al. [2] studied aluminium based metallic matrices having
varying weight fractions of copper(1 wt.% Cu and 4.5 wt.% Cu) were reinforced with SiC
particulates using a partial liquid phase casting technique. The results of their
investigation showed smaller sized and higher weight percent of copper in the matrix.
Davies C.H.J [3] mentioned the optimized age hardening treatments are vital if
aluminium-based particle reinforced metal matrix composites (PR-MMCs) are to achieve
widespread use as an engineering material. For some PRMMCs ageing may not be
optimized and suggests why this is the case. Composites of a 7xxx- series aluminium
alloy containing a number of volume fractions of Sic were investigated.
 Shyong J.H [4] reported the deformation characteristics of aluminium alloy 6061
reinforced with particulate SiC particulate 3, 10 and 30 micro meter size by varying the
SiC vol percentage (0.5, 10 and 20 %) using experimental numerical methods. They
measured tensile strength and stiffness of the composite subjecting the matrix to
dispersions content. They observed that the tensile strength and stiffness of the
composites were found to increase with the increasing particle content (volume fraction)
for heat treatment provided that it was over a limiting value. The highest tensile strength,
but the NA specimens had the greatest elongation to failure and largest ratio of tension to
yield strength. Good arrangement was observed between experimental results and
predictions of mechanical properties.
Gomes E.G. and Rossi [5] investigated heat treatment of 7475 Aluminium alloy,
specimens are heated in a solution at 520 deg for two hours was ineffective for
homogenizing the matrix microstructure. At higher solution temperature 570 deg for 2
hours most of precipitates dissolved. The peak hardness was achieved only after ageing at
150deg for ten hours. These observations indicated that the composite precipitation
kinetics was slower. The tensile specimens rupture occurred mainly through the A1/SiC
interface.
Scolians [6] produced SiC/p-reinforced Al-4.5%, Cu-1.5% Mg composites and which
were processed by vigorous stirring of the carbide in a semi –solid alloy slurry followed
by remelting and casting (stir casting). The tensile and fatigue characteristics were
evaluated in the as-cast and heat-treated conditions. They reported yield strength and
ultimate tensile strength and the elastic modulus of the composite, increased for heat
treated and followed the same trend with the increase of volume fraction of carbide.
However, ductility was found to decrease.
Metal matrix composites (MMC) comprising powder aluminium alloys reinforced by
particulate ceramic were developed by Shakesheff A.J. [7] for widespread aerospace
structural applications ranging from fuselage and missile components to undercarriage
parts. These MMCs possess high levels of specific stiffness with high specific strength
but can exhibit ductility and toughness than conventional un-reinforced aluminium alloy.
Al-Cu-Mg MMCs gave higher strength and moduli than unreinforced sheet. They
reported lowering the copper magnesium content resulted in reduced strength but did not
affect the rate of age hardening. The Al-Cu MMCs showed the lowest strength but the
absence of natural ageing may prove advantageous, enabling sheet to be formed and
subsequently heat treated to peak strength condition.
 Zhou W [8] devised a process that, comprises based on two aluminium alloys (A536
and6061) reinforced with 10% or 20% volume fraction of SiC particles were produced by
gravity casting and a novel two step mixing method was applied successfully to improve
the wettability and distribution of particles. The SiC particles were observed to be located
predominantly in the interdentric regions, and a thermal lag model proposed to explain
the concentration of particles. It may be due to the SiC particles acted as substrates for
heterogeneous nucleation of Si crystals in one of the cast composites.
S.C Sharma et al. [9] analysed the oxidation behaviour of 6061 Al and 6061 Al
based composites with 1, 2, 3 and 4% by weight of albite particles in the temperature
range from 500-800 K. The composites were fabricated by the compo casting technique.
Oxidation of the matrix material was observed to very rapid during the initial stages of
exposure to high temperatures but subsequently slowed down due to the formation of a
protective surface layer of oxide. Addition of reinforced albeit particles enhanced this
oxidation because they provided sites for oxidation initiation. The oxidation was
especially severe above 600 K.
The non-lubricated sliding high temperature wear behaviour of Al7075 alloy
composites reinforced with short S-glass fiber was evaluated. Al7075–glass composites
were prepared by the liquid metallurgical technique with 2, 4 and 6 per cent by weight. A
high temperature sliding wear apparatus, with temperature range 30–200 °C, was used to
evaluate the wear rate. Results indicated that addition of short glass fibre to Al7075 alloy
not only delays the transition wear (transition between mild and severe wear) but also
reduces the wear rate. However, in both unreinforced alloy and reinforced composites, the
wear rates increased with increases in the load, operating temperature and sliding speed.
Increase in the applied load and operating temperature increased the wear severity by
changing the wear mechanism from adhesion wear to debris cracking induced
delimitation wear. The observations have been explained using scanning electron
microscopy, X-ray direction and energy-dispersive spectroscopy analysis of the worn
surfaces and the debris.
K. Ravi Kumar et al. [10] reported on aluminium (A 380) composites containing
Flyash, fabricated using stir casting technique. Aluminium was reinforced with Flyash
particles of three different size ranges (50-75μm), (75-103μm) and (103-150μm) in 3, 6, 9
and 12 percentages by weight. Unlubricated pin-on disc tests were conducted to examine
the wear behavior of the aluminium alloy and its composites. Wear tests were conducted
at loads of 20 N, 30 N and 40 N and sliding speeds of 2 m/s, 3 m/s and 4m/s for a
constant time period of 10 minutes. Results showed that composites reinforced with
coarse Flyash particles exhibit superior wear resistance than fine Flyash particles. On the
other hand, abrasive resistance decreased with increase in load and speed. Wear rate of
composites decreased with increase in Flyash particles for all size ranges. Worn surfaces
of the pins were then analysed using Scanning Electron Microscope to study the wear
mechanisms and to correlate them with the wear test results.
The aluminium-based composites are increasingly being used in the transport,
aerospace, marine, automobile and mineral processing industries, owing to their improved
strength, stiffness and wear resistance properties. The widely used reinforcing materials
for these composites are silicon carbide, aluminium oxide and graphite in the form of
particles or whiskers. The ceramic particles reinforced aluminium composites are termed
as new generation material and these can be tailored and engineered with specific
required properties for specific application requirements.
Particle reinforced composites have a better plastic forming capability than that of the
whisker or fiber reinforced ones, and thus they have emerged as most sought-after
material with cost advantage and they are also known for excellent heat and wear
resistance applications. In this paper it is aimed to present the experimental results of the
studies conducted regarding hardness, tensile strength and wear resistance properties of
Al6061-SiC and Al7075-Al2O3 composites. The composites are prepared using the liquid
metallurgy technique, in which 2-6 wt. %’ ages of particulates were dispersed in the base
matrix in steps of 2. The obtained cast composites of Al6061-SiC and Al7075-Al2O3 and
the castings of the base alloys were carefully machined to prepare the test specimens for
density, hardness, mechanical, tribological tests and as well as for micro structural studies
as per ASTM standards. The SiC and Al2O3 resulted in improving the hardness and
density of their respective composites. Further, the increased %’age of these
reinforcements contributed in increased hardness and density of the composites. The
microphotographs of the composites studied revealed the uniform distribution of the
particles in the matrix system.
The experimental density values were agreed with that of the theoretical density
values of the composites obtained using the rule of mixture for composites. The dispersed
SiC in Al6061 alloy and Al2O3 in Al7075 alloy contributed in enhancing the tensile
strength of the composites. Hence Aluminium 7075 plays a vital role in modern
Aeronautical Field.
Thakur R.S. [11], Harvath G [12] & Muralidhar J. [13] have shown that the
alumina and other oxide particles like TiO2 etc. have been used as the reinforcing
particles in Al-matrix. Alumina has received attention as reinforcing phase as it is found
to increase the hardness, tensile strength and wear resistance of Aluminium metal matrix
composites.
Aggarwal P. S[14], Grigoreva.D. [15], Kudinov B.Z, [16], Pustilnik G.L. [17] &
Zamb J. [18] have concluded that SiC, alumina, silicon carbide, clay, zircon, and graphite
have been widely used as reinforcements in the production of composites. Numerous
oxides, nitrides, borides and carbides were studied by Zedalis as reinforcements for
reinforcing high temperature discontinuously reinforced Aluminium (HTDRA). It has
been inferred from their studies that HTDRA containing TiC TiB2, B4C, Al2O3, SiC and
Si3N4 exhibit the highest values of specific stiffness.
Nikolaev [19], Stanescu N. [20],R. Mehrabian [21] proved that the ceramic particles
are effective reinforcement materials in Aluminium alloy to enhance the mechanical and
other properties. The reinforcement in MMCs are usually of ceramic materials, these
reinforcements can be divided into two major groups, continuous and discontinuous. The
MMCs produced by them are called continuously (fiber) reinforced composites and
discontinuously reinforced composites. However, they can be subdivided broadly into
five major categories: continuous fibers, short fibers (chopped fibers, not necessarily the
same length), whiskers, particulate and wire (only for metal). With the exception of wires,
reinforcements are generally ceramics, typically these ceramics being oxides, carbides
and nitrides. These are used because of their combinations of high strength and stiffness
at both room and elevated temperatures. Common reinforcement elements are SiC,
A1203, TiB2, boron and graphite.
J. Eliasson and R. Sandstorm [22] reported that term fiber may be used for any
material in an elongated form that has a minimum length to a maximum average
transverse dimension of 10:1, a maximum cross-sectional area of 5.1X10-4 cm2 and a
maximum transverse dimension of 0.0254 cm. Continuous fibers in composites are
usually called filaments, the main continuous fibers includes boron, graphite, alumina and
silicon carbide. The fiber is unique for unidirectional load when it is oriented in the same
direction as that of loading, but it has low strength in the direction perpendicular to the
fiber orientation. As regards cost, continuous fibers are about 200 times higher than
discontinuous fibers. Therefore, for specific purposes only, that continuous fiber is used.
The other advantage of discontinuous fibers is that they can be shaped by any standard
metallurgical processes such as forging, rolling, extrusion etc.
John E. Allison [23], D. J. Lloyd [24], M.G. McKimpson [25], H.J. Rack [26], A.
W. Urquhart [27], V. V. Bhanuprasad [28] & M. S. Zedias [29] showed that the short
fibers are long compared to the critical length (lc = d Sf / Sm where d is the fiber
diameter, Sf is the reinforcement strength and Sm is the matrix strength) and hence show
high strength in composites, considering aligned fibers. Nevertheless, miss oriented short
fibers have been used with some success as AMC (Aluminium Matrix Composite)
reinforcement. Short fibers are still used mainly for refractory insulation purposes due to
their low strength compared with others, but they are cheaper than fiber and whisker.
K. Schulte and K. Minoshima [30] developed aluminium-matrix composites
reinforced with SiC fibres, Al203 fibres and carbon fibres. Continuous fibre
reinforcements, unidirectional in the 0 ° and 90 ° directions, were used. Tensile and
compression tests were performed using specially designed test equipment for metal-
matrix composites. The best results were achieved when cylindrical hour-glass shaped
specimens were used. Fatigue testing of the composites showed that a pronounced
improvement in the fatigue behaviour can be achieved upon the addition of fibre
reinforcement.
Prasanna et al. [31] have Studied on Mechanical Properties of Silicon Carbide, E-
Glass and Red Mud Reinforced Aluminium (LM25) Composite and discovered that
stirring becomes problem when we try to add excess quantity of reinforcements into the
metal matrix and also it is tough to mix the reinforcing materials which are having very
high or very low density than the matrix phase. If the density is very high than the metal
matrix the reinforcement particles will settle down early when we stop stirring. If we add
low density reinforcing materials they may float over the surface instead of distributing
themselves in the metal matrix phase. But in our study we varied the reinforcing material
in smaller quantity to avoid the mixing problem. And from the results what we got shows
the addition of reinforcing materials like Red mud, E-Glass and SiC improves tensile
strength, Impact strength and reduces % Elongation. But addition of E-Glass minimizes
the hardness.
Samuel et al. [32] carried out studies to determine the effect of melt and mold
temperatures on the castability of four Al-Si/SiC reinforced metal- matrix composites
containing two levels of silicon in terms of the fluidity and soundness. These were
assessed by monitoring the Al4C3 formation, SiC distribution, porosity volume fraction
and melt cleanliness in specimens prepared under different melting and casting
conditions. The results show that a low silicon content coupled with a high SiC level
accelerates the formation of Al4C3 which is detrimental to the fluidity and hence
castability of the composite alloy. Increasing the silicon level from 7 to 10%wt improves
the castability through a significant decrease in Al4C3 content. Increasing the SiC content
from 10 to 20% by vol results in a relatively homogeneous distribution of the particles
within the matrix even at low cooling rates. The presence of oxides in an otherwise fluid
composite melt considerably reduces the castability.
Dowson [33] described that It became apparent during the survey that wear of
materials was a prominent topic in a large number of the responses regarding some future
priorities for research in tribology. Some 22 experienced technologists in this field, who
attended the 1983 „Wear of Materials Conference‟ in Reston, prepared a ranking list .
Their proposals with top priority were further investigations of the mechanism of wear
and this no doubt reflects the judgments that particular effects of wear should be studied
against a background of the basic physical and chemical processes involved in surface
interactions.
J.Blau [34] concluded that wear of mechanical parts in most cases is considered to
be the main cause of the deterioration of the quality of operation and performance of a
device. Studies on the wear process and its modeling have been carried out for many
years. Major advances have been made in three general areas of metal research within the
past 50 years: conceptual advances, advances in instrumental techniques, and advances in
computation and dissemination of information. Research in the 1950s and 1960s
produced significant new concepts and formed the building blocks of understanding in the
areas of sliding, fretting, abrasive, and erosive wear.
M.G.McKimpson [35] stated that it became evident the importance to look to the
development of new composites based on better properties not only for the reinforcement
but for the matrix materials as well. This, in fact, has been done and new lighter, tougher
and more temperature stable materials are being developed for use as matrix. The four
DRA composites evaluated. Each has been engineered to provide a different combination
of strength, modulus, and damage toughness. The tensile and compression results
obtained by the evaluator team members on the four DRA composites are summarized.
All elongation values represent plastic elongation rather than total strain to failure. All
four composites exhibited some anisotropy due to directional working, but the whisker-
reinforced materials were noticeably more anisotropic than the particulate reinforced
alloy.
Z,Zhao and Z,song [36] investigated that Warm rolling decreases the strength and
increases the ductility and toughness of the extruded composite. A high dislocation
density in an aluminium alloy matrix composite reinforced by discontinuous SiC has been
observed. It is possible that the misfit strain between the different thermal contractions of
the aluminium alloy and SiC during cooling from the annealing temperature generates
dislocations. The dislocation density, precipitate growth and distribution are non-uniform
in the composites. A perfect bonding between the SiC and the matrix is evident. The
crack around the SiC is generated in the matrix near the interface in the extruded
composite.
Margaret hunt [37] presented a paper about form function in MMCs Improvement
in modulus, strength fatigue, creep and wear resistance has been demonstrated for a
variety of reinforcements.
Basavarajappa S [38] developed SiC and graphite-reinforced aluminium composite
and measured the adhesive wear resistance of the produced composite. While performing
this process, they used L27 orthogonal array and evaluated the factors affecting the wear
parameters experimentally and theoretically according to the process parameters. They
observed that SiC and graphite reinforcement increases the wear resistance.
C.P. Ferrer and M.G. Koul [39] found that the T6 temper exhibits strengths that are
10% to 15% higher than the T73 temper, but has Stage 2 average crack growth rates that
are approximately ten times faster than T73. RRA tempers with retrogression
temperatures as low as 160°C produced average Stage 2 crack growth rates lower than
that of the T6 temper during the DCB experiments.
R.Clark [40] revealed that, pre-aging at different retrogression temperatures
enhances the hardness, tractable properties and electrical resistivity.
S.W.Kim [41] reasoned that the hardness of matured Al7075 compound increments.
Rupa Dasgupta [42] revealed the change in the hardness, mechanical and sliding
wear resistance properties accomplished because of warmth treatment and shaping
composites by including 15 wt.% of SiC.
Manoj Singla [43] determined experimentally by taking different weight percentage
of glass fibers with epoxy resin and comparison with Flyash reinforced composite.
Fracture behaviour of composite can also be studied using SEM.SEM analyse is done to
observe distribution of Fly ash particles in matrix, resin Flyash interface, glass fibre
matrix interface, glass fibre distribution etc.
M.Taya and K.E.Lulay [44] found in their study that the strengthening of a
particulate MMC due to quenching (Air) is attributed to two mechanisms: strengthening
due to the CTE mismatch strain induced by quenching (AacrE) and that due to back stress
(Aab). The experimental results of Aa compared well with the theoretical results
predicted by two models: punchedout dislocation and back stress.
N.Chawla [45] has proposed that morphology, type of reinforcements and
distribution of reinforcing particles have significant contribution in the aggregate
characteristics profile of the composite.
 S.Rawal [46] described his paper that particle-reinforced metals provide very good
specific strength and stiffness, isotropic properties, ease of manufacturing to near net
shape, excellent thermal and electrical properties, and affordability, making discontinuous
MMCs suitable for a wide range of space applications. The high structural efficiency and
isotropic properties of discontinuously reinforced metals provide a good match with the
required multiaxial loading for truss nodes, where high loads are encountered. DRA is a
candidate for lightly-loaded trusses, while discontinuously reinforced Ti (DRTi) is more
favorable for highly-loaded trusses.
F.Ali and S.Scudino [47] found that the addition of the quasicrystalline particles
drastically improves the mechanical properties of the Al matrix. The compressive strength
increases from 155 MPa for pure Al to 330 and 407 MPa for the composites with 20 and
40 vol.% of reinforcement, respectively, reaching an ultimate strain of 55% and 20%
before fracture occurs. These results indicate that the addition of the QC reinforcement
leads to composite materials with compressive strengths exceeding that of pure Al by a
factor of 2–2.5, while retaining appreciable plastic deformation.
M.Alizadeh [48] concluded that the Al and Mg layers remained straight till the third
ARBed cycle, indicated that the AZ31 alloy exhibited a good ductility under the preheat
temperature and co-deformed with the pure Al alloy in the rolling process. The UTS and
YS of the composites increased to a maximum value at the third cycle and then decreased
with a further cycle. The maximum YS and UTS reached 178 MPa and 240 MPa,
respectively. The EL shows a similar rule for strength. Based on the fracture
morphologies analysis, it is supposed that the intermetallic compound cracking was the
main reason for the strength and elongation decrements with increased rolling cycles.
T.S.Srivatsan [49] discussed the primary processing categories for discontinuously-
reinforced metal-matrix composites and are highlighted and the salient features of the
various techniques in each category are discussed. The variables involved in each
processing technique are examined, and the influence of alloy chemistry highlighted.
H.S.Lee [50] have studied mechanical properties of Al-SiC metal matrix composite
which is fabricated by powder metallurgy process of vacuum hot pressing. From the
experiment, it is concluded that tensile strength and hardness of Al-SiC MMC having 12
wt% SiC reinforcement is higher than that of 10 wt. % SiC reinforcement and also wear
resistance increases with increase in the weight fraction of SiC particles.
Johny James.S and Venkatesan.K [51] proved from the micro structural analysis
that the presence of SiC and TiB2 reinforcements and its uniform distribution in the metal
matrix. It has been observed that clusters are formed around the Sic particle
reinforcement. These clusters are mainly due to the increased weight percentage of TiB2
reinforcement. It is also noted that porosity is mainly located around the cluster formed
regions. As the increase in weight percentage of TiB2 leads to porosity and cluster
formation the weight percentage of TiB2 with the matrix is limited to 2.5%. It has been
concluded from hardness measurement that, addition of reinforcements has effect on
hardness value, but addition of TiB2 up to 5% leads to porosity which affects hardness
value. It has been proved from wear analysis that TiB2 particles increase the wear
resistance behavior of hybrid aluminum metal matrix.
Made
F. Toptan et al. [52], studied the effect of Ti addition on the properties of Al-
B4C interface and the micro structural study reported that an effective bonding could
not be formed on the material/reinforcement interface in Al-B 4C composite produced at
temperature of 8580C, because of poor wetting of B4C particles by liquid aluminum and
the wetting problem was effectively solved by the formation of very thin TiC and TiB2
reaction layers with addition of K2TiF6 flux.
S Suresh et al. [53], studied process development in stir casting and investigation on
microstructures and wear behavior of TiB2 on Al6061 MMC and the authors conducted
that strength, micro and macro hardness of Aluminum composites increased with
inclusion of reinforcement (TiB2) in it.
Alaneme and Olubambi [54], have developed matrix hybrid composite by
studying the corrosion and wear behavior of Al-Mg-Si alloy with the use of rice husk
ash (RHA) and alumina as reinforcements. Weight percentage of 2, 3 and 4 of alumina
was added in the composite. Further using double stir casting process, the 10 wt. % of
reinforcing phase with Al–Mg–Si alloy as matrix were prepared by utilizing the RHA.
By making a comparison, it was found that single reinforced Al-Mg-Si with 10 wt. %
Alumina was much superior to the hybrid composites in 3.5% NaCl solution and also
by increasing the wt. % RHA the corrosion
rate was increased
Verma et al. [55], fabricated Al7075-B4C-RHA hybrid composite. SEM was
used to study the surfaces of fabricated composite. It was found that the hardness
increases with increase in wt.% of B4C as well as RHA. The results of SEM were
revealed and there was uniform distribution of reinforcement in aluminum matrix alloy.
F. Abdi et al. [56], they investigated the effect of 5 wt% of TiB2 as a reinforcement with
the Al356.1 metal matrix at various temperature i.e.7500C, 8500C, 9500C using stir
casting technique. They found that temperature 9500C shows best result for tensile
strength and hardness and the TiB2 particles are homogenously distributed
Ramesh et al. [57], evaluated the wear coefficients of Al6061–TiO 2 composites
by using Archard’s and Yang’s theoretical models. Increase in volume fraction of TiO 2
resulted in higher hardness and lower wear coefficient of the composites. The wear
coefficient of all the Al6061–TiO2composites decreased at higher loads and larger
sliding distances. At larger sliding distances, rise in temperature of the sliding surfaces
resulted in softening of both the matrix alloy and the composite pin surfaces leading to
heavy deformation at higher sliding distances. This contributes to higher wear losses of
both the matrix alloy and the composites.
Ramesh et al. [58], evaluated the wear coefficients of Al6061–TiO 2 composites
by using Archard’s and Yang’s theoretical models. Increase in volume fraction of TiO 2
resulted in higher hardness and lower wear coefficient of the composites. The wear
coefficient of all the Al6061–TiO2composites decreased at higher loads and larger
sliding distances. At larger sliding distances, rise in temperature of the sliding surfaces
resulted in softening of both the matrix alloy and the composite pin surfaces leading to
heavy deformation at higher sliding distances. This contributes to higher wear losses of
both the matrix alloy and the composites.
Ramesha et al. [59], demonstrated the effects of wear behavior of Al6061–TiO 2
composites and exhibited higher hardness, lower wear coefficient values when
compared with the matrix alloy. However, they conclude that, increased loads and
sliding distances resulted in higher volumetric wear loss but lowered the wear
coefficients for both the matrix alloy and its composites.
Kumar et al. [60], stated that Al–7Si/TiB2 in situ composites with significant
improvement in hardness, yield strength, tensile strength, Young’s modulus and wear
resistance have been successfully synthesized by salt reaction route.
Kennedy and Wyatt [61], found that the interfacial bond strength in Al–TiC
MMCs varies significantly with manufacturing method. Al–TiCp composites have been
produced by reacting K2TiF6 and graphite in molten aluminum by many researchers.
Jerome et al. [62], found that wear rate increases with the increase in applied
load and decreases with increase in the weight percentage of TiC. Al 7075 possesses
very high tensile strength, higher toughness at room temperature and are preferred in
aerospace and automobile sectors, but the mechanical properties of aluminum alloys are
reduced while temperature is increasing compare to the room temperature. A best way
to avoid the problem is to introduce TiC particles into the alloy.
 Rao et al. [63], produced Al7075-TiC composites by stir casting process and
identified that the hardness of composites because of the presence of the increased TiC
in the reinforced material and found that at heat treated(T6) condition better wear
properties are obtained for 8 wt% TiC composite compared to other composites( 2
to10 wt%) as well as matrix material.
Kenneth Kanayo Alaneme [64] studied microstructural characteristics,
mechanical and wear behaviour of Aluminum matrix hybrid composites reinforced with
alumina, rice husk ash (RHA) and graphite. The wear characteristics of the composites
were studied using a Taber abrasion wear testing machine He concluded that composites
without graphite exhibited greater wear susceptibility in comparison to the composite
grades containing graphite. However the wear resistance decreased with increase in the
graphite content from 0.5 to 1.5 wt%.
S.D.Saravanan [65] studied Effect of Mechanical Properties on Rice Husk Ash
Reinforced Aluminum alloy (AlSi10Mg) Matrix Composites material. A rice husk ash
particle of 3, 6, 9 & 12 % by weight were used to develop metal matrix composites using
a liquid metallurgy route. The mechanical properties such as tensile strength, compressive
strength, hardness and percentage elongations are studied for reinforced RHA composites.
G.Narasaraju [66] studied Characterization of Hybrid Rice Husk and Fly ash-
Reinforced Aluminum alloy (AlSi10Mg) Composites. The percentage elongation is more
with decrease in Fly ash and increase in Rice Husk Ash. This is due to decrease in
hardness with increase in Rice Husk Ash and decrease in Fly Ash.
Farouk Shehata et al, [67] Bagasse ash have SiC which act as natural wetting
element forms Al4C3 (aluminium carbide) substances, it was found that low porosity of
material achieved by the composites. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) image
analysis carried out at 400X magnification, it was found that BA and Gr reinforcement
particles are uniformly distributed in base metal. Also observed that the Gr is mixed with
BA particle which decreases the porosity in composites, that is Al-BA composites show
more porosity than Al-Gr-BA hybrid composites

M. Usman et al.[68] found that Incorporating bagasse ash in the aluminium alloy
reduces its density to a minimum value of 2292.208 kgm-3 at 30vol%.The maximum
ultimate tensile strength and Young modulus reached were 176.683MPa and
1725.425MPa both at 10vol% of BA. The maximum impact strength reached was
128.262kJm-2 at 10vol% BA and up to 20vol% BA the composites have better impact
strength than the control sample. The maximum hardness strength reached was
90.767HRV at 20vol% BA and all the composites have better Rockwell hardness values
compared to the control sample. The maximum fatigue strength of 1.797x106 cycles at
15vol% BA was obtained.

Pradeep P et.al.[69], has fabricated Al 7075 and Titanium DI Boride (Tib2) via the sir
casting technique. The quantity fraction of TiB2 prompted are 4%, 6% and 8% . They
evaluated the microstructure, wear, hardness properties. At 8% wt of TiB2 notices the
maximum hardness of 126 VHN and strengthens the base matrix. Explicit wear rate
diminishes as the sliding rate increments up to rotation speed (1.6 m/s) and weight, in
light of work solidifying of the material surface. Minimal effect of the wear rate got from
the 8 Wt. % of TiB2 fortified composite. The speed and the sliding distance are in most
extreme with the insignificant weight. The micro image indicates the Aluminium debris
are unvaryingly dispersed within the highest volume fraction of particulate matrix of 8Wt.
%.
Gururaj Aski, Dr. R.V.Kurahatti [70], developed to study the behavior of LM13
reinforced with ZrSiO4 in 2, 4 and 6 weight%. The tests included tensile test, impact test,
microstructure analysis, SEM analysis and hardness test. Increase in volume fraction of
ZrSiO4 results in increase intensile strength. LM13 with 6 wt% ZrSiO4 exhibited highest
ultimate strength 128.75N/mm2. Hghest hardness of 76 HRB found at composite of 6%
wt of ZrSiO4, LM13 with 6 wt% of ZrSiO4 exhibited higher impact
strength0.10N-m/mm2compared to other specimens.. From SEM images, it was observed
that distribution of ZrSiO4 was homogeneous. This homogeneous mixture was observed
in 6wt% ZrSiO4- LM13.

Hossein Bisadi et al.[71], evaluated the mechanical properties of the Al7075/TiB2

Surface Composite fabricated by Friction Stir Process. The Vickers hardness of the stirred
zone was measured on a cross section and perpendicular to the processing direction using
a Vickers hardness tester. He observed highest microhardness value is 179 HV when the
tool rotation speed is 1115 rpm with the traverse speed of 60mm/min. The average
hardness of as-received AL7075 alloy was 64HV. The tensile tests were carried out using
a GALDABINI universal testing machine. He observed tensile tests also revealed that the
addition of reinforcement significantly increased the yield strength of the composite from
91Mpa to 184Mpa. Increasing of the rotational speed enhanced the ultimate strength but
has not affected on the yield strength of composite.
Ramesh et al. [72], evaluated the wear coefficients of Al6061–TiO 2 composites
by using Archard’s and Yang’s theoretical models. Increase in volume fraction of TiO 2
resulted in higher hardness and lower wear coefficient of the composites. The wear
coefficient of all the Al6061–TiO2composites decreased at higher loads and larger
sliding distances. At larger sliding distances, rise in temperature of the sliding surfaces
resulted in softening of both the matrix alloy and the composite pin surfaces leading to
heavy deformation at higher sliding distances. This contributes to higher wear losses of
both the matrix alloy and the composites.
Ramesha et al. [73], demonstrated the effects of wear behavior of Al6061–TiO 2
composites and exhibited higher hardness, lower wear coefficient values when
compared with the matrix alloy. However, they conclude that, increased loads and
sliding distances resulted in higher volumetric wear loss but lowered the wear
coefficients for both the matrix alloy and its composites.
Kumar et al. [74], stated that Al–7Si/TiB2 in situ composites with significant
improvement in hardness, yield strength, tensile strength, Young’s modulus and wear
resistance have been successfully synthesized by salt reaction route.

Abdullahi Mohammed et al.[75] .Rice husk ash can be successfully incorporated

into aluminium alloy as reinforcement at a temperature of 800°C. Incorporating rice husk ash
into the aluminium alloy improves its mechanical properties together with its density. The
density of the composites decrease by up to 15.5% of its value in the control sample for 30vol
% RHA. The maximum ultimate tensile strength of Al-6.7 Si Alloy-RHA composite is
181.140 MPa and is up to 10.20% of the control sample at 10vol% RHA. At 15% RHA the
strength is higher than that of the control sample. The maximum impact strength of Al-6.7 Si
Alloy-RHA composite is 155.244 kJm-2 and this is up to 84.8% higher than the control
sample at 10vol% RHA and up to 25vol% RHA the composites have better impact strength
compared with the control sample. The maximum hardness of Al-6.7 Si Alloy-RHA
composite is 109.367 RHV and this is up to 55.2% higher than the control sample at 25vol%
RHA.

A. Chinnamahammad Bhasha and K. Balamurugan[76] Aluminum matrix with

different weight percentage of TiC and RHA are successfully repared through stir casting
process. TiC and RHA improve the mechanical properties of the PHAMCs compared to
the nascent sample at tempered condition. Some important observations from the above
experimental study are as follows. Addition of reinforcement’s decreases the percentage
of elongation and impact strength to a maximum of 28.52% and 29.91% respectively.
Developed PHAMCs with 7% weight fractions tends to have decreased density by 3.88%
compared to unreinforced aluminum 6061. Ultimate tensile strength, yield strength, and
Micro Vickers hardness of PHAMCs increased to 31%, 17.1%, and 18% respectively
with addition of 7 wt% reinforcement. Beyond 7 wt% reinforcement, the mechanical
properties such as tensile strength, impact energy, hardness, and density of the PHAMCs
decreases. Microstructural analysis on PHAMCs shows agglomerations and increase in
porosity with RHA. Mixed mode of failure, reinforcement fracture, dimples, micro-cracks
are found on the fractured surface.

Dr.A.Senthilkumar et al.[77] Aluminium MMCs are preferred to other conventional

materials in the fields of aerospace, automotive and marine applications owing to their
improved properties like high strength to weight ratio, good wear resistance etc. In the
present work an attempt has been made to synthesize metal matrix composite using
Aluminium LM 24 as matrix material reinforced with silicon nitride (Si3N4) and graphite
particulates using liquid metallurgy route in particular stir casting technique. The addition
level of reinforcement is being varied from 10-11wt% in Si3N4 and 7% graphite. For
each composite, reinforcement particles were preheated to a temperature of 2,2560C and
then dispersed in steps of three into the vortex of molten Aluminium LM 24 to improve
wettability and distribution. Micro structural characterization was carried out for the
above prepared composites by taking specimens from central portion of the casting to
ensure homogeneous distribution of particles. Hardness and tensile properties of the
prepared composite were determined before and after addition of Si3N4 graphite
particulates to note the extent of improvement. Micro structural characterization of the
composites has revealed fairly uniform distribution and some amount of grain refinement
in the specimens. Further, the hardness and tensile properties are higher in case of
composites when compared to commercial aluminium and mild steel bars

R. S. Rana et al.[78] Aluminium matrix composite (LM24 + B4C) using different

compositions of B4C in the alloy i.e. 3% , 5% and 7% B4C by weight have been
successfully fabricated by stir casting technique. The experimental density is closer to the
theoretical density of composites. Porosity of composites could be reduced considerably
due to nitrogen degassing. The hardness of the composites is higher as compared to un-
reinforced alloy and hardness of the composites increases with increasing weight percent
of the B4C particles.The Ultimate tensile strength of composites increases with increases
weight % of B4C particles up to 7%.. Impact strength of the alloy increases 52.94 % on
reinforcing it with 7% of Boron Carbide.

BR. Senthil Kumar[79] Particulate reinforced LM24/silicate/ fly ash hybrid composite
were fabricated by the vortex method. The mechanical and wear properties of aluminum
hybrid composites are significantly changed by varying the amount of silicate therein.
The final conclusions acquired were as follows: Optimal parameters for minimization of
the wear rate load is set as 15N, sliding velocity is set as 0.75 m/sec, wt. % of silicate set
as 24 (%wt). Optimal parameters for minimization of the surface roughness’s cutting
speed is set as 30 m/min, feed is set as 1.5 mm/rev, point o angle set as 140 degree.
LM24/silicate/fly ash hybrids composite is increasing the mechanical properties and
silicate particle reinforced exhibited reduce he sliding wear loss than the low reinforced
alloy. The wear loss decreases with increase in silicate content. The hardness of the
LM24/silicate/ fly ash hybrid composite increases with the addition of silicate and it is
higher than that of base alloy. The tensile strength was increased with increasing silicate
content The wear rate of the composite is influenced by the load and sliding velocity of
the pin on disc and worn surface of the aluminum hybrid composites is good compared to
the low weight percentage of the silicate particle reinforcement.

Mahesh L and Sudheer reddy[80]TiO2 reinforced aluminum metal matrix composites

with 5 to 15 weight percentage of TiO2 were fabricated by using powder metallurgy
process with pressure less sintering. The effect of reinforcement on the density, porosity,
hardness, strength and microstructure of composites was investigated. The density,
porosity, hardness and compressive strength of Al-TiO2 composites were found to
increase with increase in the weight % TiO2 from 5 to 15 weight percent. The
microstructure show that the uniform distribution of reinforcement particles.

Saif S. Irhayyim[81] Based on the results of this study, it can be concluded that
Various content of nano-TiO2 particles successfully reinforced Al–CNT matrix
composite through the fabrication process of the powder metallurgy technique. X-ray
diffraction pattern showed peaks corresponding to the Al matrix, CNT, and TiO2. There
was no record of any other interfering intermetallic compounds in the XRD pattern.
FESEM showed a proper and homogenous dispersal of TiO2 in the fabricated composite
matrix; however, partial clustering and agglomeration were noted in some regions with
high reinforcement content.Improving the vol% of TiO2 nanoparticles in the composite
matrix leads to a linear increase of the experimental density while the porosity decreases
gradually. The strength of the hybrid composites was significantly enhanced by
increasing the TiO2 nanoparticle content. This explains the considerable improvement of
the diametral compressive strength and the microhardness of the nanocomposite by 92%
and 58%, respectively, by increasing the reinforcement content. The wear behaviour
directly reveals that the wear resistance positively correlated with the content of TiO2
nanoparticles, but inversely correlated with the applied load.

Another study by Nassar et al.[82] focused on the evaluation of the structural, wear, and
mechanical properties of Al–TiO2 nanocomposites produced via powder metallurgy. The
outcome of the study showed a proper dispersal of the Nano-TiO2 particles within the Al
matrix with a minimal degree of porosity. The results also showed the yield strength,
wear resistance, ultimate tensile, and hardness of the nanocomposite to improve with
increases in the nano-sized content.
The mechanical performance of Al 6061–1 wt% TiO2–0.5, 1, and 1.5 wt% CNTs
composites produced via stir casting has been studied by Dewangan et al.[83] The results
of the study showed enhancements in the hardness and tensile strength of the
nanocomposite with increasing CNT content. The uniform dispersal of the reinforcement
material in the Al6061 alloy matrix was also demonstrated in the produced SEM
micrograph.
Abdullah Dhayea Ass[84] The following conclusions are derived from the experimental
results that have been obtained in the present work. Al6061/(SiC or TiO2) composites
containing different weight percentages of SiC or TiO2 can be produced via chemical
reactions between molten aluminum alloy and SiC or TiO 2particulates using Stir Casting
technique (SCT). The incorporation of SiC or TiO 2in Al6061 confers better mechanical
properties than as-cast Al6061 in all cases, but the addition of TiO 2 to the metal matrix
gave better results compared to the addition of SiC in all cases. The microstructure (by
SEM) of the produced composites showed a clean and uniform dispersion of SiC or TiO2
particulates in the aluminum matrix (AMC). Regular distribution for the SiC or TiO2
nanoparticles was observed through the microstructure analysis of the samples; a low
level of porosity was also noticed. In-situ SiC or TiO 2 particulates formation enhanced the
mechanical properties of the composite, such as the hardness value compared to the
unreinforced aluminum alloy. The improvement in mechanical properties of the
composites persisted even after heat treatment and mechanical heat treatment. The best
improvement percentage in impact toughness, UTS, and YS were observed when using
9% by weight of SiC or TiO2 particles as reinforcement compared to the unreinforced
base alloy Al6061. An increase in the weight percentage of the reinforcement particles
decreased the Particle of the produced when compared to the normal base alloy; this
decrease in ductility persisted even after thermal treatment and mechanical thermal
treatment. The XRD spectra of the composites suggested the successful incorporation of
SiC or TiO2 particles within the base matrix, indicating successful completion of the in-
situ reaction

Arunkumar[85] In the present study experimental investigations have been carried out
on composite materials containing LM24 as base metal reinforced with mica, graphite
and Al2O3in different composition. The experimental result is concluded as below.

Through examining the above provided microstructure images it is evident that the
reinforcements are near uniformly distributed in the metal matrix. The universal tensile
(UTS) strength of the material increase with increase in the percentage weight of mica
and Al2O3 . But for graphite initially it increases at 3%, then it decreases at 6% again it

increases for 9% of graphite . The decrease may be due to casting defects occurred in
specimen. The ductility gradually decreases with increase in percentage weight of Al2O3
up to 6%, again increases at 9%. It decreases and increases alternatively for increase in
the percentage weight of graphite i.e., 0%,3%,6% & 9% . It gradually decreases as
increase in the percentage weight of mica .The hardness of the material increases slowly
with increase in percentage weight of Al 2O3 up 3%, again for 6% & 9% it increases

rapidly . It increases with increase in the percentage weight of graphite up to 6%, again it
decreases at 9% due to the presence of graphite in excess quantity. It increases slowly
with increase in the percentage weight of mica up to 2%, later it increases rapidly rapidly
at 4% and 6 %

Pavan kumar et al.[86] This work has discussed the application of the Taguchi method
for investigating the effects of casting parameters on mechanical properties of LM 26
/RHA/RM hybrid composites prepared by stir casting technique. From the analysis of the
results in the casting process using the conceptual signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio approach,
analysis of variance (ANOVA), nd Taguchi’s optimization method, the following can be
concluded from the present study: The optimum level of casting parameters to obtain
good tensile strength for stir casting of L26 /RHA/RM hybrid composites are 15% weight
fraction of particles, 12 min stirring time, and 100 rpm stirring speed. The optimum level
of casting parameters to obtain good hardness for stir casting of L26 /RHA/RM hybrid
composites are 15% weight fraction of particles, 12 min stirring time, 200 rpm stirring
speed for hardness. Weight fraction of reinforced particles has the major effect on the
mechanical properties of L26 /RHA/RM hybrid composites. Taguchi method has proved
its success in prediction the optimum casting parameters to reach the best properties.

Md. Hasibul Haque[87] Rice husk ash particles were successfully incorporated in A
356.2 alloy by using stir casting techniques. Microstructure analysis shows the uniform
distribution of rice husk ash particles in the aluminium alloy. The microstructure revealed
good interfacial bond between matrix and rice husk ash particles. The hardness of
A356.2/ RHA composites increases with in-crease in rice husk ash contents. The ultimate
strength in-creases with increase in rice husk ash content. The compressive strength of
A356.2/RHA composites also increases with the increase in rice husk content. The
elongation increases with the increase in rice husk ash content. The toughness measured
by impact test increases in rice husk ash content. Rice husk ash, the agricultural waste
generated from milling paddy can be successfully used as a reinforcing material to
produce Metal Matrix Composites (MMCs) components in aluminium matrix. Thus the
use of RHA for the production of composites can turn agricultural waste into industrial
wealth and inevitably solve the problem of storage and disposal of RHA. Incorporation of
rice husk ash particles in aluminium matrix can lead to the production of low cost
aluminium composites with improved hardness and strength. These compo-sites can find
application where lightweight materials are re-quired with good stiffness and strength.
S.D.Saravanana and M.Senthil Kumarb[88] The conclusions drawn from the present
investigation are as follows Rice Husk Ash, the agricultural waste generated from milling
paddy can be successfully used as a reinforcing material to produce Aluminium Metal-
Matrix Composite. It can be successfully used in place of conventional aluminium
intensive material.The use RHA ash for the production of composites can turn
agricultural waste into industrial wealth. This can also solve the problem of storage and
disposal of RHA. There was good dispersibility of RHA particles in aluminium matrix
which improves the hardness of the matrix material and also the tensile behaviour of the
composite. The effect is increase in interfacial area between the matrix material and the
RHA particles leading to increase in strength appreciably. The Tensile Strength,
Compression Strength and Hardness increases with the increase in the weight fraction and
ductility gets decrease with increase in the weight fraction of reinforced rice husk ash.It
was concluded that the enhancement in the mechanical properties can be well attributed
to the high dislocation density. However, for composites with more than 12% weight
fraction of rice husk ash particles, the tensile strength was seen to be decreasing.

Ankit Mittal,Ram Narayan Muni[89] AL6061,RHA and copper composites were

prepared by stir casting technique..Thr tensile strength of prepared composites are
increased by increasing rice husk ash and copper content. Addition of rice husk ash
particles in aluminium matrix can lead to production of economic composites with
improved tensile strength. The addition of copper further increase tensile strength
.addition of copper does not affect much on economics of low cost aluminium and RHA
composites. These composites can find application in automotive like piston, cylinder
liners and connecting rods. These composites can also find application where lightweight
materials are required with good hardness and strength.

Alanemea et al.[90] studied the corrosion and wear behaviour of rice husk ash Alumina
reinforced and alumina as reinforcements has been investigated .Alumina added with 2,3,
and 4wt.% RHA were utilized to prepare 10wt.% of their reinforcing phase with AL-Mg
Si alloy as matrix using double stir casting process open circuit corrosion potential (OCP)
and potential dynamic polarization measurements were used to study the corrosion
behaviour while coefficient of friction was used to assess the wear behaviour. The
corrosion and wear behaviour of Al-Mg-Si matrix composite containing 0:10, 2:8,3:7 and
4.6wt,% RHA and alumina as reinforcement was investigated and finally concluded that
the corrosion resistance of the single reinforced Al-Mg-Si / 10 wt.% Al2O3 composites
were superior to that of the hybrid composite in 3.5% NaCl solution, the corrosion rates
increased along with the coefficient of friction and consequently , the wear rate of the
composite were observed to increase with increase In RHA weight %.
Saravanan et al.[91] studied the effect of Mechanical properties on rice husk ash (RHA)
reinforced with alumina as it reinforcement .A rice husk particle of 3, 6, 9 & 12 % by
weight were used to develop metal matrix composite using a liquid metallurgy route. The
surface morphology was studied using scanning electron microscope (SCM) for analyse
the distribution of RHA and derived the conclusion that the tensile strength increased
with an increase in the weight percentage of rice husk ash (RHA) due to the RHA
particles act as barriers to the dislocations when taking up the load applied.
Siva Prasad et al. [92].Studied the Production and Mechanical Properties of RHA
Composites by vortex method .The ash was obtained by burning rice husk and was
thoroughly washed with water to remove the dust and dried at room temperature for 1
day. Then It was heated to 200 ° C for 1 h in order to remove the moisture and organic
matter. It was then heated to 600° C for 12 h to remove the carbonaceous material. The
silica-rich ash, thus obtained, was used as a filler material for the preparation of
composite. Here A356.2 alloy with the theoretic density of 2760 kg/m3 is used as the
matrix material and RHA is used as the reinforcement having wt. %( 4, 6 and 8) and
observed that the hardness along with ultimate tensile strength increases and the density
decreases with the increase in the RHA wt%.
Aigbodion et al. [93 studied the Development of Al-Si-Fe/Rice husk ash particulate
composites synthesis by double stir casting method. The specimens were produced by
keeping the percentage of iron and silicon constant and varying the rice husk particle
(reinforced particles) in the range of 5-20%. And concluded that with the addition of rice
husk ash particles to Al-Si-Fe alloy increases the yield strength, ultimate tensile strength
and hardness values up to a maximum values of 79.98, 106.12 Nmm2 and 67 HRB
respectively at 15% rice husk ash addition. [18]
Adewale et al.[94] studied the influence of rice husk ash (RHA) and silicon carbide (SiC)
weight ratio on the mechanical behavior of Al‐Mg‐Si alloy matrix hybrid composites was
investigated. RHA and SiC mixed in weight ratios 0:1, 1:3, 1:1, 3:1, and 1:0 were utilized
to prepare 5, 7.5 and 10 wt% of the reinforcing phase with Al‐Mg‐Si alloy as matrix using
two‐step stir casting method. Density measurement, estimated percent porosity, tensile
properties, fracture toughness, and SEM examination were used to characterize the
composites produced. The results show that the composites were of good casting quality
as the estimated porosity values were less than 2.5 % in all grades produced. For the three
weight percent worked on, the tensile‐, yield‐, and specific strength decreases with
increase in the weight proportion of RHA in the RHA‐SiC reinforcement. However, the
results show that the composites with composition of 1:3 weight ratio RHA: SiC (25%
RHA: 75% SiC) offers comparable specific strength values with the single SiC reinforced
Al composite grades. The strain to fractures was invariant to the weight ratio of RHA/SiC
for all weight percent but the composite compositions Containing RHA had improved
fracture toughness compared with the single SiC reinforced Al composite grades
metallurgical (stir casting) method to fabricate MMC of pure aluminium reinforced with
Silicon Carbide (SiC) and Rice Husk (RHA) ash to study its mechanical behaviour. The
reinforcement silicon carbide and RHA were added in varying weight percentages of
(3%-6%). It showed higher tensile strength with the increase in rice husk content and vice
versa. Higher impact strength & hardness with increased SiC content while it slightly
decreases with increase in rice husk content [17].
Ankit Mittal and Ramnarayan Muni [95][experimented on aluminium alloy with rice husk
ash and copper as reinforcements to study the mechanical behaviour of the composite.
Magnesium was used to increase the wettability between the metal matrix and reinforcing
particles. Varying weight percentage of rice husk ash (8%, 16%, 24%, 32%) and copper
(3%) were added to the molten metal. With this it was observed that the specimens
containing copper showed improved values for hardness than those specimens containing
only rice husk. The hardness of prepared composites are increased by increasing rice husk
ash and copper content [18]. Pallavi Deshmukh et al. focused on the changes in the
mechanical properties of the Al based MMC composites which were synthesized by
reinforcing amorphous nano sized (32-56nm) rice husk SiO₂ particles and metallurgical
grade SiO₂ particles (10 μm) in Al-Mg alloy by liquid metallurgical route (stir casting)
with varying percentage of Mg. Improved mechanical properties was observed in the
composite synthesized by the use of Rice Husk, silica in comparison to metallurgical
grade silica. The micro hardness of the Al-Mg- SiO₂ was found to be maximum for 2.5%
of Mg and by using rice husk SiO₂ of nano structure dimension as reinforcement [19].

The mechanical properties of the cast Al 6061 alloy/ TiO2 particulate composites are
significantly altered by varying the amount of TiO2. It was found that increasing the
TiO2 content within the Al alloy matrix results in significant increases in the UTS,
hardness, torsional strength and impact strength but a decrease in the ductility. A
compromise is necessary when deciding how much TiO2 should be added to the Al alloy
matrix and how much should be performed to enhance the UTS, hardness, torsional
strength and impact strength of the composite without sacrificing too much of its
ductility. The fracture was ductile with dimple surface showing particles debonding, and
particle cracking. With fractography, the failure of the composites was shown to consist
of transgranular fracture of the TiO2 reinforcement and ductile rupture of the Al6061
alloy matrix.

Neelima Devi Chinta et al [96].Effect of Rice husk ash and silicon carbide as a reinforcement
material in Aluminium matrix has been studied in this project. Concentration of silicon
carbide is varied from 2%, 4% and 6% by Weight and percentage of rice husk ash is
maintained at 5% of the total weight. The test specimens of different compositions of
silicon carbide and rice husk ash with Aluminium are prepared by Stir Casting process
followed by hardness, Compression test and micro structural observation. It is found that
hardness of MMC increases with increase in SiC when compared to pure aluminium. The
compressive strength of the hybrid metal matrix composite increases upto 4% addition of
SiC and then decreases. From the microscopic observation it has been observed that the
grain formation which led to the increase in strength.

Vivudh Gupta et al .[97]Composites with different weight percentages of RHA and CES
were successfully fabricated by stir-casting technique. Composite with highest weight
percentage of RHA exhibited minimum density. Porosity content was maximum in
composites with higher weight percentages of CES. Composite with 5 wt% of RHA
showed the highest value of microhardness with 15.08% increase over microhardness of
unreinforced AA7075, whereas composite with 5 wt% of CES showed minimum value of
microhardness with 4.519% decrease in microhardness over unreinforced AA7075. Wear
loss was found to be minimum in sample with 5 wt% RHA for all test loads and sliding
speeds, whereas maximum wear loss was exhibited by composites with 3.75 wt% and 5
wt% CES at higher loads. Wear resistance of sample V1 was enhanced by 50% and
10.80% at 10N and 50 N, respectively. Wear loss was found to be increased. with
increasing load and sliding speeds for all compositions. COF was maximum in case of the
sample with 3.75 wt% RHA and 1.25% CES (sample V2) at different sliding conditions.
This increase was 5% and 13.2% at 10N and 50N respectively over COF of the base
composition. COF increased with increasing load and decreased with increasing sliding
speed for all composite samples. Worn surface analysis of composites revealed that
severe delamination with ploughing marks are dominant wear mechanisms at 30N with
low speed of 1m/s, whereas mild delamination and increased ploughing are dominant
wear mechanisms at 30N with high speed of 5m/s. Thus, it can be concluded that these
composites except composites having 3.75 wt% and 5 wt% of CES can be a potential
candidate for anti-wear applications in automotive industry such as gears, rotors,
sprockets, bearings, etc.

Gladston et al. [98] prepared composites using aluminium alloy AA6061 reinforced with
various amounts (0%, 2%, 4%, 6% and 8% mass fraction) of RHA particles and
characterized using X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. X-ray diffraction
patterns of AA6061/RHA aluminium matrix composites revealed the presence of RHA
particles without the formation of any other intermetallic compounds and the SEM
showed a homogeneous distribution of RHA particles all over the Aluminium matrix. The
reinforcement of RHA particles enhanced the micro hardness and ultimate tensile strength
of the Aluminium matrix composites.
Siddhartha Sarkar et al. [99] investigated the mechanical behaviour of Al-6061 alloy
based matrix composites, reinforced with Silicon Carbide and RHA, an agro waste
derivative. The ratios of RHA and SiC in the composite were 1:4, 2:3 and 0:1 with a
weight percentage of 8%. Tensile test, Impact test, Hardness test, and Machinability test
were performed to obtain the mechanical characteristics of the new found material and
SEM and EDX were utilised to get proper microstructure images as well as. The results
showed that the less dense Al/RHA/SiC hybrid composites have estimated percent
porosity levels as low as < 2.86% porosity.

Pydi P. et al. [100] reported that the RHA is an important source of silica and it can be
added in Aluminium metal. The author further observed that by successful addition of
rice husk ash in molten metal the mechanical properties of composites can be improved.

Alaneme et al. [101] investigated the fabrication characteristics and mechanical

behaviour of Al-Mg-Si alloy matrix composites reinforced with alumina (Al2O3) and
RHA. This was aimed of developing high performance Al matrix composites at reduced
cost. The results shown that the less dense Al-Mg-Si/RHA/Al2O3 hybrid composites
have estimated percent porosity levels as low as the single Al2O3 reinforced grade
(<2.3% porosity). The hardness of the hybrid composites decreased slightly with increase
in RHA content with a maximum reduction of less than 11% observed for the Al-4wt%
RHA-6wt% Al2O3 composition

Vishal and J Satheesh[102] The composites of Al-7075 reinforced with the E-glass
and flyash is found to have improved tensile strength and hardness when compared to Al
7075 alloy alone. As the weight % of E-glass and flyash increases the hardness also
increases. The tensile strength (UTS) has increased in thermally treated condition.
Hardness decreases with increase in the weight ratio of RHA & graphite in the
composites; and with RHA content greater than 50%, the effect of graphite on the
hardness becomes less significant. The tensile strength for the composites containing
0.5wieght% of graphite and up to 50% of RHA was observed to be higher compared to
the composites without graphite. The toughness values for the composites containing
0.5weight% graphite were in all cases higher compared to the composites without
graphite. The % Elongation for all composites produced was within the range of 10-13%
and the values were invariant to the RHA and graphite content.

Johny James.S et al.[103] prepared hybrid aluminium metal matrix composite to study
its machining and mechanical properties. Preparation of hybrid aluminium metal matrix
composite is made by reinforcing Silicon carbide and Titanium di boride. The hardness
test shows addition of reinforcement SiC and TiB2 increases hardness value. But increase
in reinforcement up to 15 wt % reveals reduction in hardness value. From tensile test
results it has been observed that addition of reinforcement SiC to base metal added 20%
strength to the composite but addition of TiB2 reduction in 50 - 60% strength is recorded.

Kenneth Kanayo Alaneme and Kazeem Oladiti Sanusi et al. [104] studied the
Microstructural characteristics, mechanical and wear behaviour of aluminium matrix
hybrid composites reinforced with alumina, rice husk ash and graphite. Alumina, RHA
and graphite mixed in varied weight ratios were utilized to prepare 10 wt% hybrid
reinforced Al-Mg-Si alloy based composites using two-step stir casting. Hardness, tensile
properties, scanning electron microscopy, and wear tests were used to characterize the
composites produced. The results show that Hardness decreases with increase in the
weight ratio of RHA and graphite in the composites; and with RHA ontent greater than
50%, the effect of graphite on the hardness becomes less significant. The tensile strength
for the composites containing o.5wt% graphite and up to 50% RHA was observed to be
higher than that of the composites without graphite.

N. E. Udoye et al[105] .AA6061 was successfully reinforced with rice husk through a
liquid metallurgy stir casting route. AA6061/8% RHA gives the maximum tensile value
of 6339 kPa in comparison with the 6000 kPa for the as received sample in all operating
conditions. The developed metal matrix agro-refiner alloy greatly improved the hardness
from 152 BHN to 188 BHN at a performance influence of 23.7%.

Prasad and Krishna[106] examined the mechanical features of AA356.2/RHA

composites. 'e authors observed more anticipated surface morphology and mechanical
characteristics than the as-received sample. 'e result depicts that the presence of RHA
particles leads to the improvement in hardness and strength of the developed composite .
Subrahmanyam et al. carried out inoculation of aluminium alloy using agricultural waste
rice husk ash. 'e authors observed that the mechanical properties of MMCs performed
better with the inclusion of RHA in aluminium alloy. The microstructure with 8% RHA
particles has exceptional mechanical properties and uniformly distributed particulates.
According to Haque et al.[107], “the production of inexpensive metal matrix composites
strengthened with eco-friendly material has contributed to revolutions in the field of
engineering to limit environmental pollution”. The authors fabricated and characterized
the reinforcement of AA356.2 alloy with RHA particulates. 'e microstructure study
reveals homogeneous dispersal of RHA particulates in the produced composites.
Furthermore, it shows that the toughness measured by impact test increases as RHA
content increases. It was affirmed that AA356.2/RHA composites could be utilized where
light-weight materials are needed with better stiffness and strength

2.2 Summary of literature review

 The extensive review of literature carried out for the present study reveals that a
lot of work has been reported to enhance the properties of Aluminium hybrid
metal matrix composites through stir casting or by any other process. The work
carried out by different researchers can be categorized into the following broad
classes.
 In the extensive literature survey conducted tensile strength increased with
increased reinforcement percentage. Under identical heat treatment conditions
composite exhibited significant improvement in tensile strength compared to Al
alloy. Ice quenching displayed maximum improvement in UTS followed by water
at room temperature and finally air, but the percentage increase in UTS was higher
compared to the hardness values.
 Not much work has been done on coated risk husk ash as reinforcements
 In the extensive literature survey conducted it was found that hardness increased
with increased reinforcement percentage.
 Very limited amount of work has been reported which explains the factors
affecting mechanical properties like Tensile strength and Hardness of Aluminium
matrix composites at the microscopic level.

2.3 RESEARCH GAP

In recent time, commendable work has taken place in the field of Metal Matrix
Composites. The results of which have shown us their tremendous capacity in enhancing
the favourable properties of aluminium and its alloys. Metal matrixes with the suitable
reinforcement have addressed a range of new requirements. A lot of work has been
carried out in the field of E-Glass fibres reinforced aluminium matrix composites which
makes it very clear that this combination is a very popular one. Al alloy matrix composite
with homogeneous distribution of a variety of non-metallic particles and fibres ranging in
size from 0.06 µm to 800 µm were racially fabricated, cast and hot extruded. Composites
containing hard non-metallic particles such as Ceramic, TiC, Al2O3, glass slag exhibited
lower wear than the pure matrix alloy. Addition of E-Glass to the composites also gives
good mechanical properties.

A lot of research has been done on aluminium alloy 1XXX to aluminum 6XXX based
composites but research on LM24 based composites is very rare, also the properties of
these composites are still not clear. Against this background, the present research work
has been undertaken, with an objective to study the effect of different composition of
reinforcement as Rice husk ash and TiO2on the LM24 based metal matrix composites.