A Critical Assessment of the Processing Parameters Yielding an Optimum Combination of Mechanical Properties in Cast Al-B4C Composites

Abstract

Metal matrix composites consisting of Al-alloy as matrix and B4C particles as ceramic reinforcement are widely used for numerous advanced applications requiring high strength, hardness, wear resistance, good thermal properties, neutron radiation shielding characteristics, etc. Among the processing routes for such composites, the liquid metallurgy route possesses the advantages of being cost-effective and capable of manufacturing bulk composites. Numerous efforts were made so far to employ different Al-alloys and a wide range of processing parameters for fabricating such composites via casting route. These studies display a considerable variation in the composites final mechanical properties and therefore warrants proper selection of the processing parameters to target for the desired applications. Within the scope of this work, the vast literature available on cast Al-B4C composites has been systematically reviewed to critically analyze the influence of the various processing parameters on different relevant mechanical properties. Based on the thorough analysis, the combinations of processing parameters that yield optimum mechanical performance in the case of some selected Al-alloy-based composites have been identified. The inferences drawn in this work will immensely facilitate the selection of process parameters for the development of future particle-reinforced cast Al-B4C composites.