Impact of Si3n4 Addition on the Mechanical Properties of Zinc-Aluminium Composite

Abstract

This study investigates the influence of silicon nitride (Si3N4) ceramic particulates on the hardness, tensile strength, impact resistance, wear characteristics, and microstructure of reinforced zinc-aluminum composites. The composites were synthesized using the stir casting method, wherein both the particulates and the alloy matrix were preheated and melted prior to mixing. Compositions of Si3N4 particulates were varied at 0%, 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, and 5% to fabricate the composites. A Vickers hardness tester was utilized to assess hardness, while a universal testing machine was employed to evaluate ultimate tensile strength. The experimental results clearly demonstrated an enhancement in the mechanical properties of the composites compared to the base zinc-aluminum alloy, with the most significant strength improvement observed at 5% reinforcement.