Effects of the alumina reinforcement ratio on the corrosion properties of iron based composite materials

Abstract

Iron based composite materials reinforced with various ceramic particles are used in operating conditions requiring features such as high hardness, strength and wear resistance. The composite materials may be subject to corrosion depending on the working environment. In this study, the corrosion properties of iron based composite materials produced by powder metallurgy, containing carbon and different amounts of alumina reinforcement were investigated. In the materials production, 0.5 wt.-% carbon and 1, 3 and 5 wt.-% alumina powders were added to the iron powders as reinforcement. Followed by mixing, one–way cold pressing and sintering, respectively, both iron based carbon and alumina reinforced composite samples were obtained. The electrochemical corrosion properties of iron based composite materials containing various amounts of alumina reinforcement were investigated in a 3.5 wt.-% NaCl environment and the effects of the reinforcing material ratio on the corrosion behavior of the composite material were determined. It was determined that with an increase in the alumina reinforcement ratio, the corrosion rate of the material increases and the corrosion resistance decreases.