Tribological performance and surface morphological analysis of in-situ synthesized BN-Si3N4 reinforced SiC-Al2O3 ceramic matrix composites

Abstract

A new kind of multi-phase ceramic composite comprising of a SiC matrix reinforced with Si3N4 and BN was prepared by in-situ formation during nitridation of Si metal and B2O3. Al2O3 was used as a sintering additive as well as to improve oxidation and corrosion resistance. XRD and SEM techniques were effectively utilized to confirm phases and analyse the evolutionary changes in microstructure. Dry wear tests were conducted to evaluate the composite's wear resistance. It was discovered that the SiC-Si3N4–BN–Al2O3 composite possessed exceptional properties, such as high hardness, high abrasive wear resistance, and low coefficient of friction. The examination of surface topography using atomic force microscopy indicates that the composites exhibit improved smoothness and enhanced capacity for load bearing. These characteristics make the composite material highly promising for diverse tribological applications. Furthermore, the strengthening and wear mechanisms of this composite were analysed and discussed in this paper. © 2025 Elsevier Ltd