Influence of extrusion temperature and process parameter on microstructures and tensile properties of a particulate reinforced magnesium matrix nanocomposite

Particulate reinforced magnesium matrix nanocomposites fabricated by semisolid stirring assisted ultrasonic vibration were subjected to extrusion. The results showed that grains of matrix in the SiCp/AZ91 nanocomposites were gradually refined while the amount of SiC nanoparticle bands was decreased with the extrusion temperature increasing from 250 to 350 °C. Under the same extrusion conditions, the grain size of the matrix was gradually decreased while the distribution of SiC nanoparticles was improved in the extruded nanocomposites fabricated by decreasing the stirring time. The yield strength and ultimate tensile strength of the nanocomposites were gradually enhanced with increasing the extrusion temperature. Significant improvement of tensile strength was obtained in the nanocomposites fabricated by decreasing the stirring time.

► SiCp/AZ91 nanocomposites were subjected to extrusion.
► Grain size of matrix in the SiCp/AZ91 nanocomposites is significantly decreased.
► Amount of SiC nanoparticle bands decreases with increasing extrusion temperatures.
► Tensile strength is gradually improved with increasing the extrusion temperature.