Development of Mg/Cu nanocomposites using microwave assisted powder metallurgy technique

Abstract

In the present study, magnesium composites containing different amount of nano-size copper particulates were successfully synthesized using powder metallurgy technique coupled with a novel microwave assisted rapid sintering. Mg/Cu nanocomposites were sintered using a hybrid heating method consisting of microwaves and radiant heat from external susceptors. The sintered specimens were hot extruded and characterized in terms of microstructural, physical and mechanical properties. Microstructural characterization revealed minimal porosity and the presence of a continuous network of nano-size Cu particulates decorating the particle boundaries of the metal matrix. Mechanical characterization revealed that the addition of nano-size Cu particulates lead to an increase in hardness, 0.2% yield strength (YS) and ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of the matrix. An attempt is made in the present study to correlate the effect of increasing presence of nano-size Cu reinforcement on the microstructural, physical and mechanical properties of monolithic magnesium. Copyright © 2005 by ASME.