Effect of Zirconia and Quarry Dust Reinforcements on Mechanical Properties of Al7079 Composite

<div>In this work, the microstructure and mechanical behavior of AL7079 metal matrix composites (MMCs) mixed with zirconia and quarry dusts are analyzed. The high-strength Al7079 can be further improved by the addition of zirconia particulates and quarry dust particles, a cost-effective reinforcement. Composite samples with different weight fractions of zirconia (2%, 4%, and 6%) and quarry dust (2%) were produced via a stir-casting technique. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) was engaged to examine the microstructure of the composites, which showed that the reinforcements were well integrated and bonded perfectly to the matrix material. A simple mechanical test of hardness, tensile, and impact strength revealed enrichment in hardness and tensile strength in comparison to the Al7079 alone, whereas the impact strength decreased. Composite containing 6% zirconia and 2% quarry dust improved both the hardness (95 BHN) and tensile strength (186 MPa) by 7%, outperforming the remaining composition thus an effective novel material for automotive sector.</div>