Al-RHEA Particulates MMCs by PM Route: Mechanical Properties and Sliding Wear Response

New particle reinforced aluminum matrix composites with the addition of refractory High Entropy Alloy, MoTaNbVW, fabricated via powder metallurgy process were assessed for their properties. Basic mechanical properties (modulus of elasticity, hardness) for the aluminum matrix, the pure aluminum and the reinforcement phase were assessed by means of dynamic nano-indentation technique. Nano-indentation based creep response was also evaluated in these three areas of interest. Hardness shows an increase with the addition of the particulates and so does the elastic moduli and the ratio of the energy absorbed in the elastic region. The creep response was approached in terms of dislocation mobility and critical volume for their nucleation. The produced Al–HEA composites were also studied for their sliding wear behavior and showed that with the increase in percentage of RHEA particulates the wear resistance increases. Microstructural considerations, wear track morphologies, and debris characteristics were used for the assessment of the involved wear mechanisms.