Processing, microstructure evolution and mechanical properties (under quasi-static and cyclic loading) of Mg-SiC nanocomposites

• Applicant: Dr.-Ing. Sepideh Kamrani, Ph.D.
• Subject Area: Mechanical Properties of Metallic Materials and their Microstructural Origins
• Term: from 2015 to 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 280646214

Due to their low density and high specific properties, the interest in magnesium (Mg) alloys for lightweight structural applications has steadily increased over the last decade. But limited strength and ductility of Mg alloys is a big challenge up to now. Recently, however, the use of nano-sized reinforcements has resulted in appreciable improvements in the performance of Mg alloys. Dispersing of nanoparticles uniformly in magnesium structure is a huge challenge for processing of Mg-based metal matrix nanocomposites, and exacerbated by the agglomeration and clustering of nanoparticles. The primary aim of this project is to synthesize fully dense magnesium nanostructured which are reinforced with a uniform distribution of SiC nanoparticles. It is planned to synthesize nanocomposites with a high volume fraction of the reinforcement, up to 10 vol.%, and reduced grain sizes of the magnesium matrix to nano-regime, by mechanical milling and proper consolidation processes. The present study aimed to investigate and discuss the underlying mechanisms and effect of SiC nanoparticles on the mechanical properties of the Mg-SiC nanocomposites under quasi-static and cyclic loading rates. The mechanical tests supported by microstructural analysis provide data to evaluate the effects of different strengthening mechanisms that are operative in the magnesium nanocomposites. The project outcome could be employed to enhance the manufacturing capabilities of magnesium nanocomposites with high volume fraction and uniform distribution of nanoparticles which subsequently lead to improvement in mechanical properties. The scientific knowledge and the engineering developments relating to nanocomposite materials in terms of synthesis, characterization, quasi-static and cyclic properties are also among the achievements of this project.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• Cooperation Partners: Professorin Dr.-Ing. Claudia Fleck; Professor Ralf Riedel