Enhancing mechanical properties of AZ31 magnesium alloy through simultaneous addition of aluminum and nano-Al2O3

Abstract

In the present study, AZ31-Al2O3-Al magnesium nano-composites were successfully synthesized using an innovative disintegrated melt deposition technique followed by hot extrusion. Microstructural characterization studies revealed uni-axial grain size, reasonably uniform distribution of particulates/intermetallics in the matrix and minimal porosity. Physical properties characterization revealed that addition of both nano-Al 2O3 and Al reduced the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of monolithic AZ31. The presence of both Al2O3 particulates and aluminum also assisted in improving overall mechanical properties including microhardness, UTS, ductility and work of fracture of AZ31. The results suggest that these composites have significant potential in diverse engineering applications when compared to AZ31 alloy. Copyright © 2010 by ASME.