Investigation of the Effect of Liquid Phase on Hot Pressed Bronze-Nickel-Cobalt Matrices

In this study, a metal matrix composite material consisting of 80% bronze, 15% nickel (Ni), and 5% cobalt (Co) was produced. Bronze is commonly known as a copper-tin alloy and offers high corrosion resistance and mechanical durability. Nickel enhances corrosion and oxidation resistance in metal matrix composites, while cobalt improves hardness and wear resistance. The composite material was further enriched with AgCd alloy in proportions of 2%, 4%, and 6%. The material production process involved the application of the liquid phase sintering technique using hot pressing. This method enables the achievement of high density and good mechanical properties. Sintering was conducted at different temperatures (650, 700, 750°C), and the effect of temperature on the microstructural characteristics of the material was investigated. During the analysis phase, the microstructure of the material was examined using SEM and elemental analysis was performed using EDS. Hardness testing was employed to evaluate the mechanical durability of the material. Density, defined as the mass-to-volume ratio, provided information about the material's internal structure. Three-point bending tests measured the bending strength of the material, while fracture surface analysis revealed the material's fracture behavior. XRD was used to determine the crystalline structure and phase composition of the material. The results demonstrated the effects of temperature variations and Ag-Cd addition ratios on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the composite material. Significant improvements in the material's durability, hardness, and other physical properties were observed due to the liquid phase sintering and hot pressing processes.