Enhancing mechanical and functional properties of LM25 alloy through squeeze cast hybrid nanocomposite incorporating breadfruit seed husk ash and graphite nanoparticles

Abstract

In this research, effective utilization of agro waste breadfruit seed husk ash particle (SHA) as reinforcement purpose in LM25 alloy matrix enhanced with the inclusions of 3, 6, and 9wt% of graphite (Gr) nanoparticle (50nm) via squeeze cast liquid processing executed with 200MPa applied compressive pressure. This developed cast examined LM25 alloy and its composites for density, percentage of porosity, microstructure, ultimate tensile strength, abrasion, and corrosion behaviour. From the experimental result, the LM25/10wt% SHA/9wt% Gr hybrid nanocomposite has low density (2.554g/cc), an excellent ultimate tensile strength of (181±1.8 MPa), superior abrasion resistance (0.332mg/m) under 40N load at 0.75m/sec, and good corrosion resistance (0.00382mm/year) compared to cast LM25 alloy. The inclusions of SHA and Gr proved their presence in LM25 alloy has good mechanical strength and maximum abrasion and corrosion resistance to overcome the drawbacks of conventional stir-casted LM25 alloy, which is poor wear resistance.