The tensile behavior of two magnesium alloys reinforced with silicon carbide particulates

In this paper is reported the results of a study aimed at establishing an understanding the role of particulate reinforcement on tensile deformation and fracture behavior of magnesium alloys discontinuously-reinforced with silicon carbide (SiC) particulates. An increase in particulate reinforcement content was observed to decrease ultimate tensile strength and ductility of the composite when compared to the unreinforced counterpart. Cracking of the individual and clusters of reinforcing particulates present in the microstructure dominated tensile fracture of the composite, on a microscopic scale. Final fracture occurred as a result of crack propagation through the matrix between particulate clusters. The fracture behavior of the composite is discussed in light of the concurrent and mutually interactive influences of intrinsic microstructural effects, deformation characteristics of the metal matrix and the particulate reinforcement, nature of loading and local stress state.