Effect of nano-Al2O3 addition and heat treatment on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Mg-(5.6Ti + 3Al) composite

► n-Al2O3 addition & heat treatment performed on Al3Ti reinforced Mg-(Ti + Al) composite. ► Mode of n-Al2O3 addition: (i) direct, (ii) combined after ball milling with Ti & Al ► Direct n-Al2O3 addition: no effect on Al3Ti, improved ductility & strength retention ► Combined (Ti + Al + Al2O3) addition suppressed Al3Ti; low strength & ductility retention. ► The heat treatment significantly enhanced the ductility of all the composites.