Abstract
The hardness and tribological behaviour of crab shell particles (CSPs) reinforced aluminium 6063 (Al-Mg-Si alloy) composites produced by the double stir casting method were investigated. Adding CSPs caused a marked improvement in the hardness and fracture toughness of the CSP composites, reflecting enhanced fracture resistance. The wear resistance enhancement of 1.56 % was noticed in 20 wt. % CSP composite, and abrasive wear was confirmed as the main wear process for the composites. The CSP composites showed a slight reduction in the density; with very low porosity indicating satisfactory wettability for the aluminium matrix, thus making the produced composite a good candidate material for the area of engineering lightweight applications.