On the Role of Processing on Microstructural Development and Mechanical Response of Magnesium-Based Nanocomposites

In this paper, an attempt is made to present and briefly elucidate and highlight the intricacies specific to magnesium-based composites containing nanosized particulates of boron nitride [BN]. The composite materials were engineered using the techniques of solid-state processing and liquid-state processing. The solid-state processing method was based on use of the powder metallurgy (PM) approach, which essentially involved use of the technique of microwave-assisted bidirectional sintering. The liquid-state processing method involved the technique of disintegrated melt deposition [DMD], which brings together the benefits of stir casting, bottom pouring and spray deposition. The composite materials, in the as-synthesized condition, were subsequently extruded. Samples of the as-extruded composites were characterized for theirmicrostructure and basic mechanical properties. The influence of processing technique used on microstructural development and resultant mechanical properties of the engineered composites is presented and briefly discussed.