Fabrication of ZrB2 particles reinforced AZ31 magnesium matrix composite by powder metallurgy and subsequent hot extrusion

Abstract AZ31 magnesium alloy metal matrix composites (MMCs) reinforced with 5, 10, 15 and 20 wt-%ZrB2 were successfully fabricated by powder metallurgy and subsequent hot extrusion. The structural evolution of AZ31magnesium matrix composite was reinforced by ZrB2. Particles were characterised by optical microscope, XRD and SEM. The reasonably uniform distribution of ZrB2 reinforcement with good interfacial is present in the AZ31/ZrB2 composite. The hardness and wear behaviour were evaluated. The hardness of composites reinforced with 5, 10, 15 and 20 wt-%ZrB2 particulates were increased by 26·8, 41·5, 97·5 and 107% compared with as cast AZ31 magnesium alloy. Correspondingly, the wear resistance of AZ31 magnesium alloy MMCs increases with increasing reinforcement weight fraction.

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