Synthesis, characterization and mechanical properties of nano alumina particulate reinforced magnesium based bulk metallic glass composites

Mg67Zn28Ca5 bulk metallic glass reinforced with 0.66–1.5 vol% of nano alumina particulates were successfully synthesized using disintegrated melt deposition technique. Microstructural characterization revealed reasonably uniform distribution of alumina particulates in a metallic glass matrix. The reinforced particles have no significant effect on the glass forming ability of the monolithic glass matrix. Mechanical characterization under compressive loading showed improved micro hardness, fracture strength and failure strain with increase in nano alumina particulate reinforcement. The best combination of strength, hardness and ductility was observed in Mg/1.5 vol% alumina composite with fracture strength of 780 MPa and 2.6% failure strain.

► Mg67Zn28Ca5 bulk metallic glass reinforced with nano alumina particulates were successfully synthesized using disintegrated melt deposition technique which has not been reported earlier. ► The reinforced particles have no significant effect on the glass forming ability of the monolithic glass matrix with no intermetallic formation. ► Mechanical property characterization under compression loading revealed improved fracture strength and failure strain. The best combination of fracture strength-780 MPa and failure strain-2.6% was observed for Mg67Zn28Ca5–1.5 vol% Al2O3 formulation. The presence of nano alumina particulates promotes ductility through multiple shear band formation due to the large mismatch between the matrix and reinforcement. ► DMD process appears to be a promising processing technique for magnesium based metallic glasses and its nanocomposites with no trace of oxidation.