Dry sliding friction of Al-based composites reinforced with various boron-containing particles

Al-based composites were produced by the following methods: vacuum impregnation technology, explosive pressing, and mechanical alloying with subsequent hot extrusion. Composites contain hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN), B4C and amorphous B as fillers. Structure of the composites was studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD). High antifriction properties and wear resistance of composite containing B4C and tungsten nanoparticles compared to matrix alloy and composites with h-BN and amorphous boron were exhibited under tribological tests.

► The Al-based composites were obtained by the methods of vacuum impregnation, explosive pressing, and mechanical alloying with subsequent hot extrusion.
► Composites contain h-BN, B4C and natural B as fillers.
► Structure of obtained composites and tribological tests was studied.