Microstructure and Abrasive Wear Behavior of Copper–Boron Carbide Nanocomposites

The effects of B₄C nanoparticle reinforcements with an average size of 50 nm on the abrasive wear performance and microstructure of Cu nanocomposites were examined. Various combinations of Cu–B₄C nanocomposites were synthesized by solid state powder metallurgy technique. Abrasive wear experiments were carried out by sticking the abrasive sheets of 400 grit silicon carbide on the disc of pin-on disc-wear tester. Pins of unreinforced Cu and Cu nanocomposites were pressed and rotated against silicon carbide abrasive sheets under dry sliding conditions at different loading conditions. Addition of nano-B₄C in Cu matrix significantly enhances the hardness of the nanocomposites which in turn increases the wear resistance of nanocomposites. The nanocomposites with 1.5 wt% of B₄C possess the superior microhardness and maximum wear resistance property. Morphology of worn out surfaces were explored by scanning electron microscopy.