| Abstract Scope |
Copper-based metal matrix composites (Cu-MMCs) reinforced with 5 wt.% boron carbide (B₄C) were successfully fabricated using Microwave Hybrid Heating (MHH)-assisted casting at 2.45 GHz. The microwave casting process provided rapid, volumetric, and energy-efficient heating, resulting in improved microstructural uniformity, reduced processing time, and lower energy consumption compared with conventional casting. The fabricated composite was characterized using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS), Vickers hardness testing, and porosity measurements based on the Archimedes principle. SEM micrographs revealed a refined microstructure with a homogeneous distribution of B₄C particles within the copper matrix, while EDS confirmed the uniform presence of Cu, B, and C without significant elemental segregation. The composite exhibited an average Vickers hardness of 107 ± 3.07 HV, attributed to grain refinement, dispersion strengthening, and efficient load transfer. A low porosity of 1.27% indicated excellent densification and sound metallurgical bonding. |