Microstructure, mechanical properties and wear performance of AZ31 matrix composites reinforced by graphene nanoplatelets(GNPs)

AZ31 magnesium matrix composites reinforced by nickel coated graphene nanoplatelets (denoted as Mg-3wt.%Al-1wt.%Zn-0.5 wt% GNPs) were fabricated with vacuum hot-press sintering process. The sintered compacts were then hot extruded at 390 °C. The microstructure, mechanical properties and wear performance were investigated. The results show that, the nickel coated GNPs uniformly distribute in the matrix. The compressive strength, microhardness, the coefficient of friction and wear rate of the composites are noticeably improved, compared to the matrix alloy of AZ31. GNP content is the main factor affecting the wear behavior of composites, and the addition of GNPs resulted in a significant increase of the abrasion resistance and a decrease of the friction coefficient.