Microstructural characterization of vanadium particles reinforced AA6063 aluminum matrix composites via friction stir processing with improved tensile strength and appreciable ductility

The reinforcement of ceramic particles in aluminum matrix composites (AMCs) restricts the plastic flow of the matrix and causes a loss in ductility. The reported research work demonstrates an improvement in tensile strength without losing appreciable ductility by reinforcing vanadium particles (~18 µm) into AA6063 AMCs by friction stir processing (FSP). Vanadium possesses a reasonable tensile strength (282 MPa) and higher elongation (35%). The composite microstructure was analyzed using optical microscope, scanning electron microscope and electron backscattered diffraction. Vanadium particles were dispersed homogenously in the aluminum matrix and the dispersion was consistent across the processed zone. There was no sign of interfacial reaction and an extremely fine grain structure was observed. Vanadium particles improved the tensile strength but retained considerable ductility of the composite. The causes for improvement in ductility and the features of fracture surface were presented.