Configuration of nanostructures reinforced Mg-MgO-Mg2Cu composite

A Mg-based metal matrix composite in a Mg-CuO-Cu ternary system, which was fabricated by combining in situ reaction and rapid quenched techniques, is reported. The fabrication and characterization of MgO nanowire and Mg2Cu-Mg nanoeutectic in the sample is presented. The in situ formed MgO nanowires were distributed in the matrix during sintering at 450 °C. The MgO nanowires were single crystals with a diameter of about 10 nm and a length of about 50 nm; and their crystal growth was controlled by the VS mechanism. The final composite contained MgO nanowires and Mg2Cu-Mg nanoeutectics, which was obtained when the sample was heated to 550 °C, and then water-quenched. The reinforcements were embedded in the Mg matrix. After the Mg2Cu-Mg nanoeutectic solidification, three kinds of mismatched surfaces, which are types A, B and C, have been produced in the matrix. The growth processes of these mismatched surfaces have been proposed to describe the different mechanisms for the formation of such mismatched surfaces in Mg2Cu-Mg nanoeutectic. Finally, the potential applications of this characteristic Mg-MMC containing high microhardness and antibacterial properties for use in electronic packaging materials are discussed.