DOI: https://doi.org/10.55373/mjchem.v27i3.391

Keywords: Zirconium carbide; carbon short fibres; aluminium; hybrid composite; mechanical properties

Abstract

Matrix Composites (MMCs) are used in automotive, industrial, and aerospace applications due to their low mass, high strength, and structural rigidity. LM13 alloy has good mechanical properties and exhibits good castability. The aim of this work is to fabricate and compare the mechanical properties of LM13-Carbon short fibers composite and LM13-Carbon short fibers reinforced with Zirconium Carbide (ZrC) hybrid composites. Samples were prepared using LM13 reinforced with different volume concentrations of ZrC (0%, 2%, 4%, 6%) and constant volume of chopped carbon fibers (10%) which are pre-heat temperatures at 900°C and are casted using a stir casting process. Tensile test, hardness, Corrosion, and wear tests were conducted. The mechanical properties evaluation reveals that tensile strength, hardness, wear, and corrosion resistance vary with the hybrid combinations. The findings indicate that the integration of ZrC increases the material's hardness, wear and corrosion resistance, whereas carbon fibers increase the material's tensile strength.