Effects of Mg content on microstructure and mechanical properties of SiC p/Al-Mg composites fabricated by semi-solid stirring technique

Abstract

10% (volume fraction) SiC p/Al-Mg composites with different Mg contents were successfully fabricated by semi-solid mechanical stirring technique under optimum processing conditions. Effects of Mg content on microstructure and mechanical properties were studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffractometry (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results indicate that SiC particles disperse homogeneously in Al-Mg matrix and interfacial reaction between Al matrix and SiC particles is effectively controlled. Distribution of SiC p reinforcement and interfacial bonding are improved by adding Mg. Additionally, the mechanical properties of composites are remarkably improved with the Mg content increasing.