Influence of GNPs and B4C reinforcements on mechanical, thermal and wear properties of magnesium matrix composite produced by powder metallurgy

Abstract

In this study, graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) and boron carbide (B4C) nano reinforcements were incorporated to the pure magnesium (Mg). Powder metallurgy route was used to fabricate composite samples. Microstructures of specimens were examined and tensile, hardness, wear tests were performed to determine the mechanical and tribological performance of produced samples. The results indicate that the hardness was increased especially with the addition of 2% B4C and 0.5% GNPs reinforcements. A general trend was observed for the enhancements of yield and tensile strengths when nano reinforcements were added to the pure magnesium. The composite samples showed better wear resistance than the unreinforced sample. However, thermal conductivity began to decrease with the addition of B4C reinforcements. It is also observed that the porosity level was also higher for the composite samples.