The mechanical behavior of magnesium alloy AZ91 reinforced with fine copper particulates

Abstract

In this study, a hybrid composite based on magnesium alloy AZ91A reinforced with copper particulates was fabricated using the disintegrated melt deposition (DMD) processing technique followed by hot extrusion. Microstructural characterization of the as-extruded composite sample revealed a near uniform distribution of the copper particulates and other intermetallic phases through the magnesium alloy metal matrix, good integrity at the copper-magnesium alloy matrix interfaces and evidence of minimal porosity. Mechanical property quantification revealed that addition of copper particulates resulted in a significant increase in elastic modulus, 0.2% offset yield strength and ultimate tensile strength of the composite material. However, ductility of the composite was marginally affected when compared to the unreinforced monolithic counterpart. The overall mechanical properties of AZ91A/Cu composite were found to be higher than the silicon carbide particulate reinforced AZ91 composite, even for higher volume fractions of the particulate reinforcement. Influence of copper in the matrix of magnesium alloy AZ91A is examined in light of intrinsic microstructural features and mechanical properties of the composite. © 2003 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.