Effect of bimodal size SiC particulates on microstructure and mechanical properties of AZ31B magnesium matrix composites

One kind of bimodal size SiC particles (micron and nano) reinforced magnesium matrix composite was fabricated by semisolid stirring assisted ultrasonic vibration method. The influence of bimodal size SiC particles (SiCp) on the microstructure and mechanical property of the AZ31B matrix alloy after hot extrusion was investigated. The microstructure investigation was carried out with Optical Microscope (OM), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). The results show that bimodal size SiC particles have a significant effect on the microstructure and mechanical property of the AZ31B matrix alloy. Moreover, compared with the monolithic AZ31B matrix alloy and single size SiCp reinforced magnesium matrix composites, the ultimate tensile strength and yield strength of bimodal size SiCp reinforced magnesium matrix composite were enhanced.