Microstructural Analysis and Mechanical Properties of the Az31B Matrix Cast Composites Containing Micron SiC Particles.

The effects of the size of micron SiC particle (SiCp) on the grain refinement, distribution of particle and tensile properties of as-cast AZ31B (Mg-3Al-1Zn-0.3Mn) magnesium matrix composites have been investigated. As the volume fraction of micron SiCp increases to 15 vol%, excellent grain refinement is achieved. Meanwhile, volume fraction of particle is set as same content, grain size of matrix decreases as the size of micron SiCp decreases. This is due to both the uniform distribution and refining effect of the fine particles. The micron SiCp distributes along the grain boundaries. Because of grain refinement strengthening and ceramic phase strengthening effects, the room temperature tensile property of M5-15 has the optimal value of YS 171MPa-UTS 216MPa-EL 0.87 %. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]