International Research Journal of Innovations in Engineering and Technology - IRJIET International Open Access, Monthly, Peer Reviewed, Reputed Journal ISSN (online): 2581-3048

Impact Factor (2025): 6.9

DOI Prefix: 10.47001/IRJIET

Influence of B₄C, Gr, and ZrO₂ Reinforcement Additions on the Mechanical Properties of Al-7075 Composites

Abstract

This study examines the effect of 3 wt.% additions of boron carbide (B₄C), graphite (Gr), and zirconia (ZrO₂) on the mechanical performance of Al-7075 metal matrix composites fabricated through a two-step stir-casting method. Three individual composite systemsAl7075+3wt.%B₄C, Al7075+3wt.% Gr, and Al7075+3wt.%ZrO₂ were produced to evaluate the distinct strengthening mechanisms associated with each reinforcement. Microstructural characterization using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) confirmed uniform particle distribution and sound interfacial bonding within the composites. The fabricated samples were subjected to tensile, compressive, hardness, impact, and flexural tests to compare their mechanical responses. The results showed that the B₄C-reinforced composite achieved the highest ultimate tensile strength of 245 MPa, indicating superior load-carrying capability. The graphite-reinforced composite exhibited the greatest improvement in toughness, showing an 11.5% increase in impact strength due to the crack-arresting and solid-lubricating characteristics of Gr particles. B₄C addition further enhanced compressive and flexural behaviour, achieving a maximum compressive strength of 649 MPa and a 15.9% improvement in flexural strength, attributed to refined microstructure and efficient stress transfer from the matrix to hard ceramic particles. The novelty of this work lies in directly comparing B₄C, Gr, and ZrO₂ reinforcements at the same 3 wt.% level, allowing clear identification of their individual effects on Al-7075. The findings support the selection of suitable reinforcements for aerospace, automotive, defence, and other lightweight load-bearing applications.

Country : India

1 Sampath Kumar R2 H C Chittappa

  1. Selection Grade-1 Lecturer, Mechanical Engineering Department, Government Polytechnic Hosadurga-577527, Karnataka, India & Department of Mechanical Engineering, University Visvesvaraya College of Engineering, Bangalore University, Bangalore-560001, Karnat
  2. Department of Mechanical Engineering, University Visvesvaraya College of Engineering, Bangalore University, Bangalore-560001, Karnataka, India

IRJIET, Volume 9, Issue 12, December 2025 pp. 167-179

doi.org/10.47001/IRJIET/2025.912026

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