Influence of micro boron carbide particles on microstructure, mechanical properties, and dry sliding wear properties of an aluminium Al2214-B4C metal matrix composite

In this experimental research, an attempt is made to develop Al2214-B4C composite materials with reinforcement of micro boron carbide (B4C) (viz. 0, 1.5, 3, 4.5, and 6 wt.%) by using a novel liquid metallurgical stir casting technique with modified bottom pouring facilities and studying the microstructure, physical, mechanical, and dry sliding wear resistance responses. The microstructure of Al2214-B4C composite samples with varied boron carbide weight percentages was examined under an electronic scanning microscope (SEM) equipped with an energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer (EDX) device. The physical characteristics like density and porosity, mechanical strength, such as micro and macro hardness, yield and ultimate tensile strength, and sliding wear response were examined under variable experimental conditions. The experimental results of the Al2214-B4C composite revealed a decreased specific density with an increased weight percentage of boron carbide particles in the matrix and a homogeneous distribution of reinforced micro boron carbide particles in the Al2214 matrix. There was an appreciable improvement in mechanical properties and wear properties in composite materials as compared to an unreinforced aluminium alloy

Economic evaluation of composite culture practices of crab fattening and fish-shrimp farming in Kerala

The aquaculture industry in India is picking up rapidly in view of its high income and employment generating potential. Recently there has been a drastic reduction in the production of shrimps from our aquaculture fanns due to the outbreak of disease. The declining demand for shrimps in export market further induced our fanners to look for alternative lucrative farming practice