In situ synthesis method and damping characterization of magnesium matrix composites

Magnesium matrix composites reinforced with 8 wt% TiC was in situ synthesized using remelting and dilution technique. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed the presence of TiC phase in sintered block and magnesium matrix composites. Uniform distribution of fine TiC particulates in matrix material was obtained through microstructure characterization. The results of damping characterization revealed that damping capacity of materials is independent of frequency, but dependent on strain and temperature. There were damping peak in damping–strain curve, which is due to the foul and tangle of dislocations. There were two damping peaks at damping–temperature curve under respective temperature of 130 °C and 240 °C. The former damping peak of magnesium matrix composites is due to dislocation motion, and the latter is due to interface and grain boundary sliding. Generally, damping capacity of magnesium matrix composites is higher than that of AZ91 magnesium alloy, which is due to the addition of TiC particulates.