Microstructure and material characterization of 6063/B4C and 1545K/B4C composites produced by two stir casting techniques for nuclear applications

•The MMC of 6061 + 4%B4C and 1545 K + 4%B4C were successfully produced by stir casting techniques.•Novel stir casting technique was used - the particles incorporated to the melt by powder master alloy.•Good interface reaction between the matrix and the B4C reinforcements was observed.•The formation of Al3BC and AlB2 phases on the matrix/B4C interface was demonstrated.•1545 K + 4%B4C MMC showed YS = 425 MPa and UTS = 455 MPa and high resistance to intercrystalline corrosion.

The composites of 6063 + 5%B4C and 1545 K + 5%B4C were successfully produced by two stir casting techniques. The first involved incorporation of reinforcements particles in pure form. Stir casting technique was novel, in which the particles incorporated to the melt using by powder master alloy. The incorporation of B4C particles in pure form is more effective than using a powder master alloy. A good interface reaction between the matrix and the B4C reinforcements was observed by the formation of Al3BC and AlB2 phases on the matrix/B4C interface. 1545 K + 5%B4C alloy showed YS = 425 MPa and UTS = 455 MPa and, also high resistance to intercrystalline corrosion.

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