Tensile and Fracture Toughness Behaviour of Reinforced Magnesium Composites

Abstract

Magnesium alloys were reinforced by alumina short fibres and silicon carbide particles using powder metallurgical or squeeze infiltration techniques. Tensile and fracture toughness tests were carried out at room and elevated temperatures. The effect of reinforcement and fabrication route on the mechanical properties are discussed. The reinforcement increases the tensile related properties and decreases the ductility and fracture toughness. A greater dependence of the mechanical properties on the fabrication route is observed. The P/M matrix alloy and composites are much stronger but more brittle than the squeeze cast alloy and composite.