Synthesis and Characterization of ZrO₂ Reinforced Al7075 MMC's: A Study on Mechanical Property Enhancement

The current research involves synthesis of zirconium oxide (ZrO2) nanoparticles using sol-gel process and focuses on investigating the effect of Zirconium particulate size varied between 30-40 nm on various mechanical properties. Al7075 Metal matrix Composites (MMC’s) with variable weight percentage (Wt. %) ZrO2 nano particles fabricated using the stir casting technique. The castings were created by altering the weight percentage of the reinforced particles at 1, 2, and 3 weight fractions in volume. Scanning Electron Microscope and microstructural analysis were conducted on all composite samples including the fractured surface of tensile specimens. The microstructural study revealed a homogenous distribution of ZrO2 reinforcement particles throughout the Al7075 metal matrix composites. Results from mechanical tests revealed an enhancement in hardness, toughness and tensile strength with an increase in Zirconium dioxide particles in the weight percentage of composites. As anticipated, the percentage elongation decreased with the increased weight percentage of reinforcement in the aluminum matrix (Al). Al7075 with 3 % ZrO2 shows higher tensile strength (187Mpa), Hardness (101HBN), Impact strength (0.28J/mm2) and lower wear rate. Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) analysis was conducted on all composite samples, which reveals the presence of ZrO2 in Al- ZrO2 Metal Matrix composites (MMC’s). Major Findings: Zirconium oxide (ZrO₂) nanoparticles with a size range of 30-40 nm were synthesized using the sol-gel process. A significant improvement in hardness was observed as the percentage of ZrO₂ increased. The tensile strength was highest for the composite with 3 % ZrO₂, measuring 187 MPa. Microstructural examination of tensile specimen fractures confirmed this homogeneity. The composite with 3 % ZrO₂ exhibited higher impact strength compared to others, indicating improved impact resistance.