Abstract
In this study, we present a new composite material that was developed using the pressure infiltration method. In this composite, carbon reinforcement in the form of an open-celled rectangular foam (Cof) was applied, and pure magnesium with two commercial magnesium cast alloys (AZ31, RZ5) was used as the matrix. We examined the microstructure (LM, SEM + EDS) of composites as well as the density, porosity, hardness, compressive strength, flexural strength and tribological properties in dry conditions. It was revealed that the chemical composition of the matrix had a significant impact on the macrostructure, microstructure and properties of the composite. The matrix with rare elements (RZ5) induced poor infiltration of Cof and physicochemical degradation of the reinforcement, while pure magnesium ensured good infiltration, a stable friction coefficient and low wear. For the AZ31 alloy, the effects of infiltration were good; however, an increase in the tribological properties was not observed. Compared with the as-cast matrix materials, the presence of carbon foam in both pure Mg and AZ31 alloy induced an increase in compressive strength and stiffness as well as a decrease in flexural strength. Furthermore, SEM examination of the fractured and wear surfaces microstructure showed structural effects’ dependence on the matrix composition.
Highlights
Enrichment of magnesium alloys with ceramic phases of different chemical composition, size and morphology, and the fabrication of an ex situ-type composite is one of the possible methods of properties design
There are visible differences in their macrostructure. This observation agrees with that of light microscopy (LM) micrographs (Figures 2b, 3b and 4b) because it indicates a strong influence of the chemical composition of the matrix for infiltration effects
For the Cof –RZ5 composites, there were visible macropores and micropores as well as carbon foam damage. This reveals an inefficient infiltration of Cof by this magnesium alloy and destructive influence of the RE alloying elements on the carbon component
Summary
Enrichment of magnesium alloys with ceramic phases of different chemical composition, size and morphology, and the fabrication of an ex situ-type composite is one of the possible methods of properties design. For reinforcement phase composition, ceramic phases, such as SiC [1,2], Al2 O3 [3], graphite [4], glassy carbon [5], and TiB2 [6], can be primarily found; in terms of size and shape, they are microsized and nanosized particles [1,2,3,7], fibers and nanofibers [8,9,10] For these components, consolidation and composite fabrication, powder metallurgy techniques and cast methods, as well as complex processes, such as differing combinations, are required. These composites were applied to increase the mechanical properties and to ensure low density characteristics for magnesium
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
