Effect of Zirconia and Quarry Dust Reinforcements on Mechanical Properties of Al7079 Composite

In this work, the microstructure and mechanical behavior of AL7079 metal matrix composites (MMCs) mixed with zirconia and quarry dusts are analyzed. The high-strength Al7079 can be further improved by the addition of zirconia particulates and quarry dust particles, a cost-effective reinforcement. Composite samples with different weight fractions of zirconia (2%, 4%, and 6%) and quarry dust (2%) were produced via a stir-casting technique. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) was engaged to examine the microstructure of the composites, which showed that the reinforcements were well integrated and bonded perfectly to the matrix material. A simple mechanical test of hardness, tensile, and impact strength revealed enrichment in hardness and tensile strength in comparison to the Al7079 alone, whereas the impact strength decreased. Composite containing 6% zirconia and 2% quarry dust improved both the hardness (95 BHN) and tensile strength (186 MPa) by 7%, outperforming the remaining composition thus an effective novel material for automotive sector.