Nutpool Materials

The effects of B4C nanoparticle reinforcements with an average size of 50 nm on the abrasive wear performance and microstructure of Cu nanocomposites were examined. Various combinations of Cu–B4C nanocomposites were synthesized by solid state powder metallurgy technique. Abrasive wear experiments were carried out by sticking the abrasive sheets of 400 grit silicon carbide on the disc of pin-on disc-wear tester. Pins of unreinforced Cu and Cu nanocomposites were pressed and rotated against silicon carbide abrasive sheets under dry sliding conditions at different loading conditions. Addition of nano-B4C in Cu matrix significantly enhances the hardness of the nanocomposites which in turn increases the wear resistance of nanocomposites. The nanocomposites with 1.5 wt% of B4C possess the superior microhardness and maximum wear resistance property. Morphology of worn out surfaces were explored by scanning electron microscopy.