Microstructure and Wear Characteristics of Nano Y2O3 Particles Reinforced A356 Alloy Composites Synthesized Through Novel Ultrasonic Assisted Stir Casting Technique

In this research, Y2O3 nano particles were dispersed into Aluminum A356 via ultrasonic assisted stir casting route. Microstructural analysis confirmed that ultrasonic aided synthesis significantly helped in homogenous dispersion of particles; excellent bonding between matrix and reinforcement and at the same time significantly refined the dendritic microstructure. Addition of nano Y2O3 particles and ultrasonic treatment had a tremendous impact on the hardness of developed composites. Sliding wear characteristics of the developed composites were investigated under varying sliding speeds and loads. Wear test results confirmed that addition of nano Y2O3 particles comprehensively decreased the A356 alloy wear rate, and SEM analysis of the worn out samples revealed delamination, oxidation and abrasion, plastic deformation wear to be the predominant wear mechanisms.