A study on the microstructure and tribological behavior of cold-sprayed metal matrix composites reinforced by particulate quasicrystal

• Particulate QC reinforced bronze-based MMCs were prepared by cold spraying.
• Composite coatings present a dense microstructure and a high hardness.
• The ratio of deposited QC particles to its fraction in initial powders is 30%–40%.
• A moderate incorporation of QC phase improves the wear resistance of coating.

In the present study, mechanical blends of AlCuFeB quasicrystal and tin bronze powders were deposited by cold spray process to obtain metal matrix composites (MMCs) reinforced with quasicrystalline particulates. The influences of the incorporation of quasicrystal particles on the particle deposition behavior, microstructure and microhardness of the composite coatings were investigated. In order to evaluate the influence of reinforcing quasicrystal phase on the tribological behavior of the coatings, ball-on-disc sliding tribological tests were conducted in an ambient condition. The results showed that the incorporation of quasicrystal particles reduced the porosity and increased the microhardness of the composite coatings. At the same time, a reduction of the friction coefficient and an increase of wear rate were found. Wear mechanisms were discussed and correlated to the microstructure and microhardness of coatings.