| Abstract Scope |
This study examines the interface microstructure and nano-mechanical properties of iron-silicon (Fe-SiC) composites fabricated using laser-directed energy deposition (LDED) with 5, 10, and 30 vol.% SiC. High-resolution electron microscopes reveal SiC particle dissociation for all the compositions, leading to the formation of pure carbon precipitates within the Fe-C-Si matrix. Line scans confirm compositional diffusion at the carbon-matrix interface. The nano-indentation hardness and elastic modulus were minimal in the carbon-rich regions, varying with SiC fractions in the sequence as Fe-5SiC > Fe-10SiC > Fe-30SiC. In contrast, the maximum hardness in the matrix regions followed the opposite trend, with the highest values observed for Fe-30SiC and the lowest for Fe-5SiC. Similarly, the maximum elastic modulus in the matrix regions followed the same variation sequence as the minimum elastic modulus values. These findings highlight the significance of fabricating Fe-SiC composites using the LDED process for potential use in solid lubricant applications. |