Evaluation of microstructural, mechanical and tribological behavior of SiC and ZrO2 reinforced brass matrix composites synthesized by spark plasma sintering (SPS)

In this study, a brass matrix composite with additives such as ZrO 2 and SiC was fabricated using the spark plasma sintering (SPS) method. While determining the sintering parameters for the SPS production method, brass samples were produced at two different temperatures, 780 °C and 850 °C, and two different dwell times of 10 and 30 min. The XRD patterns supports the production of SiC and ZrO 2 -doped brass matrix composite with peaks of ceramic additives and the main matrix phase. As a result of OM and SEM images showing the homogeneous distribution of the reinforcements in the matrix were obtained. Samples containing 10% ZrO 2 and SiC were successfully delivered and the reinforcements increased hardness values, and wear resistance increased many times compared to the pure sample. Samples with and without additives were successfully produced with an average relative density of 99.2% and 98.4% density, respectively. The SPS method is a promising method to improve mechanical properties (wear resistance, hardness, etc.) and microstructure of ZrO 2 and SiC-reinforced brass matrix composites.