MARATTO

article · Journal of Materials Research and Technology

Microstructure, mechanical properties and wear behavior of Mg matrix composites reinforced with Ti and nano SiC particles

202475 citationsOpen accessZagazig University

In plain language

This study investigated magnesium metal matrix composites reinforced with titanium and silicon carbide particles, fabricated using ball milling and spark plasma sintering. Four different compositions were examined to understand their mechanical properties and wear behaviour. The addition of silicon carbide particles improved grain refinement and phase formation. However, increasing silicon carbide content also led to higher porosity, which negatively impacted some properties. Composite NC, containing 10 wt% silicon carbide, showed the highest hardness at 137 HV and demonstrated good wear resistance with stable coefficient of friction values. In contrast, Composite A, with only titanium reinforcement, exhibited the lowest porosity, lowest weight loss during wear, and the most stable coefficient of friction. The findings highlight the complex interplay between reinforcement content, porosity, and mechanical performance in these magnesium composites.

Key takeaways

  • Magnesium composites reinforced with titanium and silicon carbide were successfully fabricated using ball milling and spark plasma sintering.
  • The addition of silicon carbide particles enhanced grain refinement and phase formation but also increased porosity.
  • Composite NC, with 10 wt% silicon carbide, achieved the highest hardness of 137 HV.
  • Composite A, reinforced only with titanium, showed the lowest porosity, lowest wear weight loss, and most stable coefficient of friction.
  • Higher silicon carbide content (15 wt% in ND) led to reduced hardness, likely due to increased porosity and particle agglomeration.

Why it matters

Understanding how to improve the mechanical properties and wear resistance of magnesium composites is important. These materials are lightweight and could be used in applications where strength and durability are crucial, potentially leading to more efficient and longer-lasting components in various industries.

Commercialisation angle

This early-stage research explores material properties, specifically mechanical strength and wear resistance, of magnesium composites. Such materials could potentially be used in lightweight structural components for industries like automotive or aerospace, where reduced weight and improved durability are beneficial. However, the abstract does not indicate a specific application pathway or readiness level beyond fundamental material characterisation.

AI-generated from the published abstract. Always read the original work before citing.

Abstract

This study examines the mechanical properties and wear mechanisms of magnesium (Mg) metal matrix composites reinforced with titanium (Ti) and silicon carbide (SiC) particles. Three different composite formulations were investigated: Mg-30 wt% Ti (A), Mg-25 wt% Ti-5 wt.% SiC (NB), Mg-20 wt% Ti-10 wt% SiC (NC), and Mg-15 wt% Ti-15 wt% SiC (ND). These composites were fabricated through ball milling and spark plasma sintering (SPS). The incorporation of SiC particles significantly enhanced grain refinement and phase formation within the composites. Density analysis revealed that the actual densities of the composites were lower than the theoretical values, with Composite A exhibiting the highest actual density of 2.15 g/cm³ and the lowest porosity of 16.31%. The introduction of SiC particles increased porosity, with Composite NB displaying the highest porosity at 30.58%. Hardness testing indicated that Composite NC, containing 10 wt% SiC, achieved the highest hardness of 137 HV. In contrast, Composite ND, with 15 wt% SiC, showed a reduced hardness of 115 HV, attributed to increased porosity and potential SiC particle agglomeration. Wear behavior was evaluated using a pin-on-disc tribometer. Weight loss measurements indicated that Composite A had the lowest weight loss (1.1–2.1 mg), while Composite NB experienced the highest weight loss (2.8–8.3 mg) due to increased porosity. Composite NC demonstrated a balance with moderate weight loss (2.0–3.8 mg). The coefficient of friction (COF) varied with SiC content and applied loads (2, 4, and 8 N), with Composite A demonstrating the lowest COF values (2.3–2.8) and stable performance across different loads. Composite NB exhibited higher COF values (3.5–4) and significant fluctuations due to elevated porosity and the presence of SiC particles. Composite NC showed better wear resistance and more stable COF values (2.5–2.9) compared to NB and ND.

Research topics

  • Aluminum Alloys Composites Properties
  • Magnesium Alloys: Properties and Applications
  • MXene and MAX Phase Materials

Sustainable Development Goals

Read the original research

This page summarises published work. The authoritative version sits with the publisher.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jmrt.2024.07.125

Is something wrong with this record? Report it or request removal.

Discussion

Discuss this research

Have you built on this work, tried to replicate it, or seen it applied in practice? Share what you know. Verified researchers and MARATTO™ domain experts can open a discussion, and any member can reply. Contributions are reviewed before they appear.

No discussion yet. Open the first thread.