Nano-SiC particle reinforced AM60 magnesium alloy prepared by semi-solid process

The SiC nano-particle reinforced AM60 magnesium alloys were fabricated by the semi-solid process. The effects of SiC nano-particles on micro-structure and mechanical properties of AM60 alloy have been investigated by optical microscope, Brinell hardness tester and MTS material testing machines etc. The results reveal that the microstructure and mechanical properties of the AM60 magnesium alloy can be improved with the addition of SiC particles. With 1% SiC nano-particles addition, the optimized mechanical properties of the alloy can be observed, whose yield strength, tensile strength and elongation are improved by 56.9%, 19.2% and 69.3% respectively, and whose hardness and impact energy are increased by 16.4% and 18.8%, respectively, compared with those of the original alloy. The mechanism of strengthening and toughening of magnesium alloys containing SiC nano-particles are also approached.

Duke Scholars

Author Zhaohui Wang Pathology