Papers by Author: Jonathon Mak

Abstract: Particulate reinforced 10 vol.% (TiB+TiC)/Ti-6Al-4V metal matrix composites (MMCs) were produced by in-situ synthesis using vacuum arc re-melting process, and the mechanical properties of the metal matrix composites were assessed by the small punch testing (SPT). Mechanical properties of the in-situ synthesized Ti MMCs were studied and compared with the Ti base alloy. From the test data, the fracture properties and equivalent fracture strain of the test materials were characterised. The fracture mechanism of the test samples was examined using scanning electron microscopy.

Abstract: Particulate reinforced Ti based metal matrix composites (MMCs) were made by in-situ synthesis using vacuum arc re-melting process. The microstructure of the Ti-6Al-4V base alloy and 10 vol.% (TiB+TiC)/Ti-6Al-4V metal matrix composites was examined. The particulate reinforcements were analysed and identified TiB and TiC particles. The particle distribution was analysed using the quadrat method over 1620 quadrats. A homogeneous particle distribution was found to establish in the composites. The experimental distribution of the reinforcements agreed well with the theoretical Poisson distribution. A skew factor, which characterizes the degree of asymmetry of a statistical distribution, of 1.108 was determined for the particle distribution in the material.

Abstract: Equal channel angular extrusion (ECAE) was employed in an attempt to develop nanostructural metal matrix composites with homogenized distribution of reinforcing particles. Zn- Al metal matrix composites reinforced with 5 μm SiC particulates were produced by casting method. A non-uniform distribution of the reinforcing particles was evident in the metal matrix. With repetitive shear deformation imposed via the ECAE process, substantial structural improvement was achieved and the reinforcing particulates were de-clustered into a finely dispersed distribution throughout the metal matrix. The homogeneity of the particle distribution was studied by the Quadrat method and the skew factors were determined. It was found that the skew factors were substantially reduced after 8 extrusion passes, showing the homogeneity of the particle distribution was greatly improved in the composites.