Distribution of TiB2 reinforcements in magnesium matrix composites by a multi-physical coupling field

TiB2/AZ31 magnesium matrix composites were prepared under the separate effects of an electromagnetic field, ultrasound and of both in combination. The electromagnetic field appeared to expand the zone of ultrasonic action, resulting in fine grained and more uniform microstructure with a more homogeneous distribution of the reinforcing TiB2 particle clusters in the magnesium alloy matrix. Subsequent hot-rolling further improved the microstructural homogeneity. The resulting TiB2/AZ31 composite sheets exhibited excellent overall mechanical properties, with an ultimate tensile strength of 350 MPa and a tensile ductility approaching 8%.