Influence of Ti3AlC2 content and load on the tribological behaviors of Ti3AlC2p/Al composites

In this study, Ti3AlC2 particles doped aluminum matrix composites were prepared by ultrasonic agitation casting method. Microstructure, mechanical properties, and tribological properties of pure aluminum and Ti3AlC2p/Al composites were characterized. Influence of different loads (10, 20, 30, and 40 N) and Ti3AlC2 contents (1.0, 2.0, 3.0, and 4.0 wt%) on the tribological behaviors of the composites were studied. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Energy dispersion spectroscopy (EDS), and 3D laser confocal were used to assist the analysis. The results indicated that fine and uniformly microstructure and the optimum comprehensive mechanical properties were exhibited on 2.0 wt%-Ti3AlC2p/Al composites. The abrasive grooves were widened and deepened with an increase in the load. The abrasion performance of composites improved distinctly with the addition of the Ti3AlC2 particles, which changed the wear mechanism from adhesive wear to abrasive wear. The 30 N load and the composites of 2.0 wt% Ti3AlC2 revealed the optimum tribological properties. The improvement of the tribological behavior of composites was attributed to the refinement of microstructure, the improvement mechanical properties and the three dimensional layered Ti3AlC2 phases with self-lubricating properties.