Properties of Mg-based metal matrix nanocomposites processed by high shear dispersion technique (HSDT)-A review

Metal Matrix Nanocomposites (MMNCs) often show excellent properties as compared to their non-reinforced alloys due to either the achieved grain refinement or Orowan strengthening. Especially in light metals such as aluminium and magnesium as the matrix has the potential to be significantly improved in relation to mechanical properties. Functionalisation can also be achieved in some cases. However, the challenge lies in the homogeneous distribution of the ceramic nanoparticles in the melt if MMNCs have been processed via melt metallurgical processes. The large surface area of the nanoparticles generates large van der Waals forces, which need to be overcome. Furthermore, the wettability of the particles with molten metal is difficult. Additional forces can be applied by ultrasound, electromagnetic stirring, or even high-shearing. In this paper, properties of MMNCs with a light metal matrix, which have been produced with the High-Shearing Dispersion Technique are discussed. First, the process with its different characteristics and the underlying theory is presented, and then property improvements are discussed by comparing MMNCs to their matrix materials.None

Recent developments in the application of the interdependence model of grain formation and refinement

The Interdependence model will be briefly reviewed and then applied to two different casting situations. One is the solidification of Mg–Al–Sm alloys to determine the optimum composition for achieving a fine as-cast grain size. Because the size range of the nucleant particles can be measured, the key factors describing the potency of the particle can be calculated providing a more complete description of the grain formation mechanisms operating for this alloy. This approach should be relevant for other Mg–Al–RE alloys. The other casting situation is where the melt of an AM60-AlN nanoparticle composite was treated ultrasonically producing a fine grain size on solidification. The limitations to grain size reduction by nanoparticles are discussed in terms of the Interdependence and Free Growth models

Ultrasound assisted casting of an AM60 based metal matrix nanocomposite, its properties, and recyclability

An AM60 magnesium alloy nanocomposite reinforced with 1 wt % of AlN nanoparticles was prepared using an ultrasound (US) assisted permanent-mould indirect-chill casting process. Ultrasonically generated cavitation and acoustic streaming promoted de-agglomeration of particle clusters and distributed the particles throughout the melt. Significant grain refinement due to nucleation on the AlN nanoparticles was accompanied by an exceptional improvement in properties: yield strength increased by 103%, ultimate tensile strength by 115%, and ductility by 140%. Although good grain refinement was observed, the large nucleation undercooling of 14 K limits further refinement because nucleation is prevented by the formation of a nucleation-free zone around each grain. To assess the industrial applicability and recyclability of the nanocomposite material in various casting processes, tests were performed to determine the effect of remelting on the microstructure. With each remelting, a small percentage of effective AlN nanoparticles was lost, and some grain growth was observed. However, even after the third remelting, excellent strength and ductility was retained. According to strengthening models, enhanced yield strength is mainly attributed to Hall-Petch strengthening caused by the refined grain size. A small additional contribution to strengthening is attributed to Orowan strengthening

Thermal cycling of Mg-MMCs

Creep resistant Mg alloy QE22 reinforced with maftec(R), saffil(R) or supertec(R) short fibres is cycled between room temperature and 308degreesC at different ramp rates in the longitudinal and transverse directions. From the careful analysis of the strain vs. temperature thermal cycling curves true material behaviour and artifacts from the dilatometer are deciphered. From this analysis true coefficient of thermal expansion and relaxation processes are deduced. Hysteresis at higher temperatures is attributed to the relaxation process, whereas hysteresis at low temperatures giving a tilt-ground shape to the thermal cycling curves is again an artifact due to the instrument. The change in ramp rate highlights this effect. Finally, the effect of thermal cycling on microstructure is examined

Investigation on mechanical properties and creep behavior of stir cast AZ91-SiCp composites

The room temperature mechanical properties and high temperature creep behavior of AZ91 alloy reinforced with SiCp synthesized via stir casting have been evaluated. The mechanical properties showed improvement with respect to the amount of reinforcement content. The creep testing of the composites carried out at a temperature of 175 °C under constant stress of 80, 100 and 120 MPa reveals different creep characteristics depending upon the reinforcement content and the applied load. The true stress exponents of different composites calculated from minimum creep rate indicate the possible mechanisms of creep deformation

Advanced metal matrix nanocomposites

10.3390/met9030330Metals9333

The Role of Second Phases on the Creep Behavior of As-Cast and Hot-Extruded Mg-Ca-Zr Alloys

The effect of second phases on the creep behavior of Mg-Ca-Zr alloys was investigated. Casting and hot-extrusion processes were performed to prepare Mg-xCa-0.5Zr (x = 0 wt.%, 0.3 wt.% and 0.6 wt.%) alloys with different morphologies and distributions of second phases. The as-cast microstructures of Mg-Ca-Zr alloys consisted of an Mg matrix and coarse Mg$_2$Ca intermetallic compounds distributed at the grain boundaries. The hot-extruded microstructures exhibited finer Mg$_2$Ca spherical particles and precipitates distributed homogeneously inside the matrix and along the grain boundaries. The results of creep tests suggested that the viscous glide of dislocation and dislocation climb were the dominant creep mechanisms of Mg-Ca-Zr alloys crept at 200°C. The creep property was strongly related to the morphology and distribution of the Mg$_2$Ca phases. The finer and more homogeneously distributed particles showed a better strengthening effect than the coarser intermetallic compounds distributed along the grain boundaries