Abstract—In the present work, an attempt has been made to develop Al alloy (LM 13) matrix nano composites in sand moulds by using copper end blocks of chill thicknesses of 10, 15, 20 and 25 mm with cryogenic effect. The size of the reinforcement (Nano-ZrO2) ranges from 50-80 nm being added ranges from 3 to 15 wt. % in steps of 3 wt. %. Cryogenically solidified Nano Metal Matrix Composites were compressed by using hydraulic compression machine. Specimens were prepared according to ASTM standards and tested for their strength, microstructure and fracture toughness. Micro structural studies of the fabricated Nano Composites indicate that there is uniform distribution of reinforcements in the matrix (LM 13). An increasing trend of UTS and fracture toughness has been observed. The best results have been obtained at 12 wt%. The results were further justified by comparing four copper end chill thicknesses of 10, 15, 20 and 25 mm. Finally the Volumetric Heat Capacity of the cryo-chill is identified as an important parameter which affects tensile strength and fracture toughness.

Index Terms—Cryogenic effect, Volumetric heat capacity, Fracture toughness, Copper end chills, Cryo-chill

Cite: R H Jaya Prakash, Abdul Budan, and Joel Hemanth, " Effect of Nano-Zro2 Particulate Reinforcement on Microstructure and Fracture Behavior of Cryogenically Solidified Aluminum Alloy (LM 13) MMCs," International Journal of Mechanical Engineering and Robotics Research, Vol. 4, No. 1, pp. 340-349, January 2015.