Tensile properties and microstructure of SiC nanoparticle-reinforced Mg-4Zn alloy fabricated by ultrasonic cavitation-based solidification processing

Magnesium, the lightest structural metal, is of significance to improve energy efficiency in various applications. Mg-4Zn/1.5 pct SiC nanocomposites were successfully fabricated by ultrasonic cavitation-based dispersion of SiC nanoparticles in Mg-4Zn alloy melt. As compared to the Mg-4Zn magnesium alloy matrix, the tensile properties including tensile strength, yield strength, and ductility of the Mg-4Zn/ 1.5 pct SiC nanocomposites were improved significantly. In the microstructure of Mg-4Zn/1.5 pct SiC nanocomposites, there are still some SiC microclusters. However, in areas outside the microclusters, the SiC nanoparticles were dispersed very well. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) study of the interface between the SiC nanoparticles and Mg-4Zn magnesium alloy matrix suggested that SiC nanoparticles bonded well with Mg without forming an intermediate phase.