A new-developed magnesium matrix composite by reactive sintering

The present work was undertaken to highlight a novel magnesium matrix composite. Thermodynamics analysis by Miedema model predicts that Al–Ti intermetallics are the predominant equilibrium phases of Mg–Al–Ti system. An in situ titanium tri-aluminide (Al3Ti) particulate reinforced magnesium matrix composite has been fabricated successfully through reactive sintering of Mg–Al–Ti system. The composite is characterized by a relatively homogeneous distribution of Al3Ti particulates with a size range of 2–4 μm and a good cohesion at the matrix/particulate interface. The hardness, compressive ultimate stress and wear resistance of the Al3TiP/Mg composite are evidently increased, compared with pure magnesium and AZ31 magnesium alloy.