Interfacial characteristics of squeeze-cast SiC-reinforced AZ91D magnesium-based composites

The method of producing magnesium-based composites with silicon carbide (SiC) particulates embedded in the matrix of magnesium AZ91D alloy by the squeeze-casting technique are described. This method involves the fabrication of a SiC particulate preform and the subsequent squeezing of molten magnesium into the preform. In this study, alumina, aluminum phosphate and a proprietary binder were used for the fabrication of SiC particulate preforms. The procedures employed in the fabrication of SiC/AZ91D composites are presented, together with the results of characterization of the composites using optical and transmission electron microscopy. Special attention is given to the reaction products in the bulk alloy and at the interfaces between SiC particles and the AZ91D matrix alloy.