Characterization of mechanically alloyed and pressureless sintered Al-7 wt% Si-2 wt% LaB6-2 wt% (MoSi2, WSi2) hybrid composites

The purpose of this research is to investigate the dual effect of silicide (MoSi2 or WSi2) and LaB6 reinforcing particles on the microstructural and mechanical properties of Al-7 wt% Si (Al7Si) matrix. Hypoeutectic Al7Si blends prepared from elemental Al and Si powders were mechanically alloyed (MA’d) for 12 h in a planetary ball mill (at 300 rpm). Afterwards, 2 wt% silicide reinforcements (MoSi2 or WSi2) with various particle size distributions...