Characterization of aluminum composites reinforced with ZrB2 particles

In the present study, AA4032 with high Cu composites reinforced with zirconium diboride (ZrB₂) particles were synthesized by the in situ reaction of molten aluminum with salts K₂ZrF₆ and KBF₄. The composites were characterized using XRD, OM, and SEM. According to the findings, the amount of primary Si particles rose as the Cu concentration increased from 1 wt.% to 3.5 wt.%. The XRD patterns confirmed the formation of ZrB₂ particulates without the presence of any other compounds. The formation of ZrB₂ particles refines the eutectic Si phases of the aluminum matrix extensively. The hardness of the material was improved by adding high amounts of Cu and ZrB₂ particles.