Regarding the near net shape synthesis of an antifriction composite with improved microstructure and yield strength

In the present study, an aluminum-based metallic matrix (Al–4.5 wt% Cu) was reinforced with graphite particulates, using the disintegrated melt deposition technique. Microstructural characterization studies conducted on the as-processed composite samples revealed the presence of significantly refined grain size (0.21 times of that exhibited by unreinforced samples) and an increasingly equiaxed grain morphology, compared with the typical columnar/equiaxed grain morphology exhibited by the unreinforced samples. In addition, the studies revealed the presence of minimal porosity (<1%), a mostly uniform distribution of graphite particulates, and a good graphite-matrix interfacial integrity. Results of ambient-temperature tensile tests revealed that the presence of 5.1 wt% of graphite particulates led to ∼52% increase in yield strength, while the ultimate tensile strength and ductility remained lower, compared with the unreinforced samples. An attempt is made to correlate the presence of graphite particulates with the microstructure and mechanical properties variation exhibited by the Al–4.5 wt% Cu matrix.