Effect of zirconia addition on laser powder bed fusion of Inconel 718-zirconia composite

Cho Pei Jiang, Andi Ard Maidhah, Alvian Toto Wibisono, Ehsan Toyserkani, Wojciech Macek, Maziar Ramezani

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

This study investigates the integration of zirconia (ZrO2) as a reinforcing agent in the Inconel 718 (IN718) matrix to potentially enhance material hardness and high-temperature oxidation resistance. Employing laser powder bed fusion (LPBF), 3D composite parts of IN718-ZrO2 were systematically fabricated, varying the ZrO2 mass. The primary objectives encompass exploring the impact of ZrO2 on the microstructure, micro-hardness, and high-temperature oxidation of the IN718- ZrO2 composite. The research employed comprehensive testing methodologies, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), micro-Vickers hardness, XRD, thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential thermal analysis (DTA). Results elucidated the successful 3D printing of IN718-ZrO2 composites utilizing the LPBF. Notably, defects such as porosity, cracks, lack of fusion, and balling were identified, intensifying with increased ZrO2 content. The composite demonstrated a substantial increase in hardness across all ZrO2 mass variations compared to pure IN718, with 1 wt.% ZrO2 achieving the highest hardness. Furthermore, oxidation resistance exhibited improvement with higher ZrO2 content in the composite. The comprehensive analysis unveils promising opportunities for developing and applying IN718-ZrO2 composites in industries characterized by high-temperature environments and elevated wear conditions. The findings provide valuable insights into optimizing the performance of these composites, thereby contributing to advancements in materials engineering for challenging operational conditions.

Original languageEnglish
Number of pages12
JournalProgress in Additive Manufacturing
DOIs
Publication statusE-pub ahead of print - 4 Mar 2025
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Additive manufacturing
  • Inconel 718
  • Laser powder bed fusion
  • Zirconia

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