Enhancement of Magnesium Alloy (AZ31B) Nanocomposite by the Additions of Zirconia Nanoparticle Via Stir Casting Technique: Physical, Microstructural, and Mechanical Behaviour

Magnesium-based matrix composites' attention has recently increased significantly in various engineering applications due to their high strength-to-weight ratio, good solidification, and good mechanical properties. During the fabrication process, oxidation and porosity was the main drawback and led to reduced composites' mechanical properties. Based on this, the AZ31B grade magnesium alloy composite was prepared with different weight fractions (0, 3, 5, 7, and 9 wt%) of zirconia nanoparticles (ZrO2) through a liquid state stir cast process under an inert argon atmosphere. The effect of inert atmosphere-operated ZrO2 on the microstructural and mechanical properties of AZ31 alloy nanocomposites was studied. The surface morphology of the developed composite showed homogenous particle distribution with a porous free structure. As a result, low porosity level (less than 1%) and enriched mechanical properties of composite and composite contained 5 wt% ZrO2 facilitate maximum yield, tensile, and impact strength of 208±2 MPa, 276±1.5 MPa, and 5.8±0.5J, respectively. However, the higher content of ZrO2 in AZ31B alloy offered a high hardness value of 74±1HV. The optimum results composite sample 3 (AZ31B/5 wt% ZrO2) is recommended for automotive roof frame application.