SiC nanoparticles reinforced magnesium matrix composites fabricated by ultrasonic method

SiC nanoparticles reinforced magnesium matrix composites were fabricated by ultrasonic method. The AZ91 alloy and SiC nanoparticles with the average diameter of 50 nm were used as the matrix alloy and the reinforcement, respectively. The addition of nanoparticles was 0.1%, 0.3%, and 0.5% (mass fraction) of the composites. The results of microstructural evaluation and mechanical properties indicate that the nanoparticles can be dispersed into magnesium alloys efficiently and uniformly with the aid of ultrasonic vibration. As compared with the matrix alloys, the grains of composites were refined and the mechanical properties of composites were improved significantly. The SEM and DSC analyses show that the SiC nanoparticles can act as the heterogeneous nucleation of alpha-Mg. Also, the strengthening mechanism responsible for the composites reinforced with SiC nanoparticles was discussed.