Metal matrix composites (MMCs) can offer several advantages compared to conventional alloys, like increased strength, stiffness and wear resistance due to the presence of reinforcing phases, while retaining the ductility and fracture toughness characteristic of the matrix. Additionally, MMCs can maintain good transport properties, such as thermal and electrical conductivity, which are of interest for certain applications. Processing of iron-based MMCs can be done via solid-state, liquid-state and vapor-deposition methods. Although liquid and vapor methods offer some advantages in well-optimized industrial applications, they are less suitable for a lab scale approach and require a more complex infrastructure. By contrast, solid-state routes, such as sintering, require limited laboratory equipment and can inherently promote uniform dispersion of reinforcing phases. Our laboratory has developed a two-step internal precipitation sintering protocol, which can reproducibly yield silica-reinforced iron matrices with limited porosity. This semester project aims to extend that methodology by exploring alternative ceramic reinforcement compositions of interest within an iron-rich matrix.
In this semester project, the student will use Thermo-Calc software to predict phase equilibria and critical sintering parameters to guide the production of manganese-silicate containing iron-matrix composites in accordance with a multi-step sintering strategy. Sample processing will include the preparation of the powder mixtures, compaction of the green bodies and final sintering. Standard metallographic preparation of sintered specimens will be followed by microstructural analysis via optical and scanning electron miscropy, supplemented by Vickers hardness measurements.
Project supervisors: David Hernández Escobar and Sándor Lipcsei
Contact: [email protected] and [email protected]