Improvement of microstructure and mechanical properties of AZ91/SiC composite by mechanical alloying

Abstract

AZ91 magnesium alloy reinforced with SiC particulates was fabricated via powder metallurgy technique as well as mechanical alloying process where a planetary ball mill was employed. Microstructure and mechanical properties of the fabricated AZ91 composites had been evaluated. Microstructural study showed that grain size of the material was refined and SiC particulates were well distributed after mechanical alloying. Mechanical tests of the composite showed an enhanced yield and ultimate tensile strengths for the mechanically alloyed samples compared with those prepared via the powder metallurgical route.