A novel approach for enhancing the mechanical behavior of additively manufactured metal matrix composite structures: Preliminary investigation

Abstract

Additive Manufacturing is a promising technique for expanding the boundaries of Metal Matrix Composites. In this study, Powder Bed Fusion (PBF) technique, employing Electron Beam as the heat source, was used to print Ti6Al4V metal matrix in different geometric shapes with a new approach for MMC fabrication. Yttria Stabilized Zirconia (YSZ) powder was then incorporated into these pattern shapes, compacted, and sintered to bind the powder particles together. The findings showed that successful sintering was achieved, resulting in the formation of a flexible interface region, with the circular design achieving the best interface region among all pattern designs. Regarding the mechanical performance evaluation of the developed Metal Matrix Composites, it was found that the mechanical strength was significantly increased with the hexagonal and circular patterns achieving the best results. Future research should pay more attention to further design development for the metal matrix model to achieve outstanding performance and create a new field for Metal Matrix Composites using the developed method.