Enhancing compressive response of Mg-6Al alloy using Al2O3 nanoparticles

In this study, Mg-6Al/Al2O3 nanocomposites were synthesized using disintegrated melt deposition technique followed by hot extrusion. Two different amounts of alumina nanoparticles (0.66 and 1.11 wt.%) were added into Mg-6Al matrix. Microstructure and mechanical properties were investigated. Results of XRD analysis revealed that the presence of alumina nanoparticles assisted in randomization of texture (basal to prismatic). The compressive response regarding hardness and compressive strength was assessed using nanoindentation and compressive tests. The results of hardness, modulus of elasticity, compressive strength and the deformation behavior of the composites were compared with pure Mg and Mg-6Al alloy. In all the cases, the composites exhibit better mechanical properties.