Preparation, microstructure and properties of molybdenum alloys reinforced by in-situ Al2O3 particles

The conventional molybdenum alloys, lacking of hard particles enhancing wear property, have relative poor wear resistance though they are widely used in wear parts. To resolve the above question, Mo alloys reinforced by in-situ Al₂O₃ particles are developed using powder metallurgy method. The in-situ α-Al₂O₃ particles in molybdenum matrix are obtained by the decomposition of aluminum nitrate after liquid-solid incorporation of MoO₂ and Al(NO₃)₃ aqueous solution. The α-Al₂O₃ particles well bonded with molybdenum distribute evenly in matrix of Mo alloys, which refine grains of alloys and increase hardness of alloys. The absolute density of alloy increases firstly and then decreases with the increase of Al₂O₃ content, while the relative density rises continuously. The friction coefficient of alloy, fluctuating around 0.5, is slightly influenced by Al₂O₃. However, the wear resistance of alloy obviously affected by the Al₂O₃ particles rises remarkably with the increasing of Al₂O₃ content. The Al₂O₃ particles can efficiently resist micro-cutting to protect molybdenum matrix, and therefore enhances the wear resistance of Mo alloy.