Comparison of Microstructures and Properties of Ae42 Magnesium Alloy and Its Composites

Abstract

Magnesium as an energy proficient material has the potential to replace steel, aluminum and some plastic-based materials. There is a great interest in using magnesium (Mg) alloys in the automotive industry due to greater environmental concern. Fuel resources are limited so it should be conserved and the harmful emissions in the environment should be reduced. Magnesium with a density of 1.74 gm/cm3 is a light metal and is suitable for automotive purpose. In this investigation the microstructure and properties of AE42 magnesium alloy and its composites reinforced with saffil short (essentially d-Al2O3) fibers and Sic particles has been studied. Both optical and SEM characterization study is carried out. Hardness values reveal that the composites are more promising than the alloy. Wear study is carried out on Ball on Plate Wear Tester at a normal load of 5 N and 10 N at rotational speed of 25 rpm. Though wear rate increases with the normal load, composites show more resistance to indentation than the AE42 alloy. Large curly chips are observed in case of magnesium alloy. Immersion test reveals that composites are more prone to corrosion due to galvanic cell creation within itself because of the presence of fibers and Sic particles.