Nano-AlN particle reinforced Mg composites: microstructural and mechanical properties

• Published in: Materials science and technology Vol. 31; no. 9; pp. 1122 - 1131
• Main Authors: Sankaranarayanan, S., Habibi, M. K., Jayalakshmi, S., Jia Ai, K., Almajid, A., Gupta, M.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: London, England Taylor & Francis 01.07.2015; SAGE Publications; Taylor & Francis Ltd
• Subjects: Aluminum nitride; Composite materials; Magnesium-metal matrix nanocomposites (Mg-MMNCs); Mechanical properties; Microstructure; Nanoparticles; Nanostructure; Particulate composites; Strength; Surface layer; Texture; Mechanical properties; Microstructure; Magnesium-metal matrix nanocomposites (Mg-MMNCs); Texture
• ISSN: 0267-0836; 1743-2847
• DOI: 10.1179/1743284714Y.0000000686

In this study, nano-AlN particles were introduced into pure Mg matrix through the powder metallurgy technique incorporating microwave assisted two-directional sintering followed by hot extrusion. The effect of varying volume fraction of nano-AlN addition on the microstructural and mechanical properties of pure Mg was investigated. Microstructural characterisation revealed marginal grain refinement due to the fairly uniform distribution of AlN nano-particulates. X-ray diffraction results indicated basal texture weakening in Mg/0·2AlN composite. Tensile property measurements revealed an overall increase in strength properties and ductility. Among the developed composites, Mg/0·8AlN displayed superior strength (∼30% improvement) and Mg/0·2AlN showed enhanced ductility (∼80% enhancement). Under compressive loading, the developed Mg/AlN nanocomposite formulations exhibited improved strength properties without significant effect on compressibility.