Dry Sliding Wear Behavior of AZ31-ZrO2 Nanocomposites

Abstract

The present research investigates the influence of ZrO2 nanoparticles on the microstructural, mechanical, and tribological behavior of magnesium matrix composites fabricated through an ultrasonic-assisted stir-casting process. The microscopic characterization reveals the successful inclusion of ZrO2 nanoparticles through several characterization methods like energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and optical microscopy. The effect of varying ZrO2 content (0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 wt%) on the tribological behavior is explored using a pin-on-disk wear tester. Wear experiments have been conducted under dry sliding conditions at different operating loads (10, 20, 30, and 40 N) and sliding velocities (0.1, 0.2, 0.3, and 0.4 m/s) at room temperature. The incorporation of ZrO2 nanoparticles improves the microhardness of the cast base alloy and significantly enhances wear resistance. Additionally, an attempt has been made to identify the dominant wear mechanisms by analyzing the worn surfaces.