Investigation of the mechanical, corrosion, and tribological characteristics of AZ61 Mg with boron carbide nano particles via the stir casting route

Abstract

Magnesium composites are innovative, compact, and distinctive materials. Because of their low density, magnesium composites are suitable for applications in the automobile, aviation, semiconductor, and pharmaceutical sectors. To enhance the mechanical wear and corrosion behavior of theAZ61 Mg alloy, different weight percentages of nano-B4C reinforcements (2.5, 5, 7.5, and 10wt%) were strengthened with magnesium matrix. Fabrication of magnesium composites was achieved through the stir casting method. The as-cast specimens were subjected to microstructural analysis, which showed that the B4C nanoparticles were dispersed uniformly, well bonded to the matrix, and had a minimal level of porosity. This shows that the inclusion of B4C nanoparticles has aninsignificanteffect on the microstructure of the as-cast material. The material’s tensile strength, compressive strength, hardness, corrosion resistance, and wear resistance were all greatly increased by the Mg17Al12 phase’s fracture and dispersion. Scanning electron microscopy was utilized to inspect the surfaces of AZ61/B4C nanocomposites and witnessed the uniform dispersal of reinforcement within the matrix.The maximum value for mechanical properties was obtained for AZ61/7.5wt%B4C nanocomposite and the lowest value was found to be the corrosion test. These results show that the AZ61/7.5wt%B4C nanocomposite is a superior material for aerospace and automotive engineering components where high compressive strength, corrosion resistance, and wear resistance are required.