Mechanical and microstructural characterization of TiO 2 and GO doped aluminum matrix composites for aerospace application

Abstract

This study investigates the effect of titanium dioxide (TiO₂) and Graphene oxide (GO) addition on the mechanical and microstructural properties of Al7075 metal matrix composites. Composites were fabricated with varying TiO₂ (1.5–3.5 wt.%) and GO (0.2–0.6 wt.%) contents to assess their combined strengthening influence. Mechanical characterization was done through Vickers hardness, Charpy impact, and flexural strength tests, while the microstructure was analyzed using SEM, EDS, and XRD techniques. Developed composite exhibited better mechanical result. The composition composed of 3.5 wt.% TiO₂ and 0.4 wt.% GO exhibited the best result, recording a hardness of 155 HV, impact energy of 9.8 J, and flexural strength of 340 MPa. Enhancement of approximately 47%, 118%, and 62%, respectively, over the base alloy for hardness, toughness and flexural strength was noticed. SEM and XRD analyses verified uniform dispersion of reinforcements, grain refinement, and improved crystallinity for the optimal sample. The combined effect of TiO₂ and GO significantly increased strength and toughness, identifying Al7075-3.5 wt. % TiO₂-0.4 wt. % GO as a promising lightweight, high-strength composite for aerospace and automotive structural applications.