Synergistic effect of different high-performance fibers on the microstructural evolution and mechanical performance of novel hybrid metal matrix composites produced via friction stir processing for automotive applications

The present study aims to produce novel hybrid metal matrix composite (HMMC’s) material using a mixture of reinforcement (basalt, E-glass, and carbon fibers) in long, chopped, and flakes form via Friction Stir Processing (FSP) techniques. Subsequently, the effect of hybrid reinforcement on microstructural evolutions, mechanical performance, and the fracture mechanism of HMMC’s was investigated. The results demonstrated that hybrid reinforcement synergistically enhanced the tensile, flexural, and impact performance of FSPed HMMC’s compared to monolithic composites (non-hybrid) and received base metal (BM). The long fiber-reinforced hybrid aluminum metal matrix composites (HL) show a ~156% increment in tensile strength and ~196% increment in impact strength, while flakes-reinforced hybrid aluminum metal matrix composites (HF) show a ~101% increment in flexural strength compared to the BM. The field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) analysis demonstrated a homogeneous dispersion of reinforcement and an excellent interfacial bonding of fibers with the aluminum matrix in the fabricated composites. The validation of element distribution and composition within the composites was confirmed using FESEM elemental mapping and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) spectrum.