Development AA7075/SiC/ZrN hybrid composite fabricated through powder metallurgy techniques and evolution its microstructural and mechanical properties

It was aimed to find the effect of a variation in reinforcement level on the porosity and mechanical properties for the two types of composites: SiC reinforced and SiC and ZrN reinforced. It was possible to relate an increase in pore levels as a causative factor for a decrease in mechanical properties. Furthermore, it was noted that composites with optimal levels in weight fraction showed very good mechanical responses: 2 wt% of ZrN and 8 wt% SiC in the current study. The enhancement of mechanical properties by newly produced Al₃Zr particles will open new frontiers for its application in various industrial settings. This is highly promising for a great number of sectors in the industry that are in great need of lightweight but durable materials: aerospace, automotive, among other sectors. Based on the compression strength and hardness test results of AA7075/SiC/ZrN composites, the average values were 167 MPa and 112 HV, respectively. The great potential of this composite puts it in a very competitive position among the intended composites for various applications that require high mechanical strength and light weights like aerospace and automotive sectors.