Microstructure and sliding wear behavior of fly ash reinforced dual phase brass surface composites synthesized through friction stir processing

Dual phase brass was reinforced with industrial residue fly ash particles (0–18 vol%) to produce surface composites through friction stir processing (FSP). Micrographs revealed uniformly dispersed fly ash particles. The interface made a strong bond with the brass matrix because of the absence of pores or any undesirable compounds. Fracture of fly ash particles during processing was not evident. FSP and fly ash particles led to the formation of fine grained structure. There was no evaporation of Zn and the dual phase was retained. TEM micrographs showed evidence for interrupted dynamic recrystallization. Fly ash particles helped to slow down the material removal during sliding wear. The composite specimen produced smaller debris and wore in abrasive manner.