Development of magnesium/(yttria + nickel) hybrid nanocomposites using hybrid microwave sintering: Microstructure and tensile properties

In the present study, the role of hybrid reinforcement (ceramic + metal) methodology to enhance the tensile response of magnesium is highlighted. Powder metallurgy incorporating microwave sintering was used as the processing technique. Mg/0.7 vol.%Y2O3 nanocomposite was chosen as main reference point based on earlier studies. Nickel nanoparticulates in the range of 0.3–1.0 vol.% were used to hybridize the nanosize Y2O3 reinforcement. Tensile results revealed an increase in 0.2% YS and UTS of Mg/(Y2O3 + Ni) hybrid nanocomposites when compared to pure Mg and Mg/0.7Y2O3. Mg/(0.7Y2O3 + 0.6Ni) nanocomposite showed a simultaneous improvement in both strengths (0.2%YS and UTS) and average ductility when compared to Mg and Mg/0.7Y2O3. Emphasis is placed in this study to highlight the capability of metallic and ceramic hybrid reinforcements to improve overall tensile response of magnesium when used in right amounts.