Silver matrix composites - Structure and properties

Phase compositions of composite materials determine their performance as well as physical and mechanical properties.Depending on the type of applied matrix and the kind, amount and morphology of the matrix reinforcement, it is possibleto shape the material properties so that they meet specific operational requirements. In the paper, results of investigationson silver alloy matrix composites reinforced with ceramic particles are presented. The investigations enabled evaluation ofhardness, tribological and mechanical properties as well as the structure of produced materials. The matrix of compositematerial was an alloy of silver and aluminium, magnesium and silicon. As the reinforcing phase, ₂0-₆₀ μm ceramic particles(SiC, SiO₂, Al₂O₃ and Cs) were applied. The volume fraction of the reinforcing phase in the composites was ₁0%. Thecomposites were produced using the liquid phase (casting) technology, followed by plastic work (the KOBO method). Themechanical and tribological properties were analysed for plastic work-subjected composites. The mechanical properties wereassessed based on a static tensile and hardness tests. The tribological properties were investigated under dry sliding conditions.The analysis of results led to determination of effects of the composite production technology on their performance. Moreover,a relationship between the type of reinforcing phase and the mechanical and tribological properties was established.