Influence of SiC particles on compressive deformation of magnesium matrix composites

The influence of the presence of ceramic particles on the twinning mechanism in magnesium matrix composites was measured using synchrotron radiation diffraction during in situ compressive tests. As with the unreinforced alloys, the plasticity of extruded composites is controlled by the 〈 1 0 1¯ 1¯〉{1 0 1¯ 2} tensile twining process. However, the volume fraction of twins is rapidly saturated as the volume fraction of reinforcement increases. SiC particles balance the tensile stress generated by twins during plastic deformation.

► Compression behaviour in magnesium matrix composites using synchrotron radiation diffraction.
► Plasticity is controlled by the 〈1 0 1¯ 1¯〉{1 0 1¯ 2} tensile twining system.
► The volume fraction of twins rapidly saturates as the volume fraction of reinforcement increases.
► SiC particles balance the tensile stress generated by twin formation.