Microstructure and mechanical characteristics of AZ31B/Al2O 3 nanocomposite with addition of ca

Abstract

The present study addresses the development of a AZ31B-Al2O 3 nanocomposite. AZ31B-Al2O3 nannocomposite is known to exhibit excellent ductility matching with that of pure aluminum but with limited strength levels. Addition of Ca is shown in this study to lead to a simultaneous improvement in 0.2%YS, UTS and hardness while the ductility was compromised. The ductility, however, stayed ∼30% higher than the ductility of monolithic AZ31B. The results suggest that this alloy-composite has significant potential in diverse engineering applications when compared to AZ31B or AZ31B-Al2O3 nanocomposites. © 2009 SAGE Publications.