In Situ Synthesis and Formation Mechanism of AlN in Mg-Al Alloys

In-situ synthesis of AlN-Mg composite materials by the gas bubbling method was investigated using nitrogen as the gaseous precursor in the temperature range of 700 °C to 800°C. The proofs of a direct reaction of N2 and Al to form AlN in Mg-Al alloy melt were found. Microstructure analysis confirms the formation and the uniform distribution of AlN phases in the alloy. An optimum process to form in situ AlN phase in Mg-Al based alloys has been obtained.