Mechanical properties and microstructural characteristics of Ti/WE43 composites

Abstract

Simultaneously improving the strength and elongation (EL) of magnesium and magnesium alloys, as lightweight structural materials, is a great challenge. This study successfully prepared Ti/WE43 composites through hot-pressing sintering and hot extrusion. The effect of Ti particles on the mechanical properties and microstructure of the magnesium matrix composites was also deeply investigated. With the increase in Ti particle content, the yield strength (YS) and ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of Ti/WE43 composites increased at the same time while maintaining high EL. The 6Ti/WE43 composite, in particular, had an excellent strength–ductility combination with YS, UTS, and EL of 267 MPa, 337 MPa, and 15.1%, respectively. The grain size of Ti/WE43 composites was refined with the increase in Ti particle content. Microscopic analysis revealed that the grain refinement was mainly ascribed to the existence of Ti particles and fine second phases embedded alternately in the matrix. Grain refinement and thermal mismatch strengthening were the main reasons for the increased YS of Ti/WE43 composites. The interface products between the Mg matrix and Ti particles were mainly a Zr–Ti diffusion layer and Y2O3 particles. The Zr–Ti diffusion layer between the Ti/Mg interface can improve interfacial bonding.