Fabrication, microstructure, and properties of interface-reinforced Mg/Mg bimetal composites by long-period stacking ordered structures

Interface-reinforced Mg–6Zn–Zr/Mg–4Y-2Gd–Nd (wt. %) bimetal composites by long-period stacking ordered (LPSO) structures were fabricated and the interfacial microstructures and properties were investigated. Results revealed the presence of a (Mg, Zn)3RE phase (RE: Y, Nd, Gd), stacking faults, and variations in chemical composition at as-cast bonding interface. After heat treatment, interfacial LPSO structures, characterized as 14H and 24R types, were formed. The novel composites exhibited an interfacial shear strength superior to that of base metals and other light bimetal composites due to the generation of LPSO structures and kink-deformation bands. This finding provides a new approach for the design of high-performance bimetal composites. [Display omitted] •Long-period stacking ordered (LPSO) structure interface-reinforced ZK60/WE43 composite has been fabricated.•The shear strength of ZK60/WE43 composite is much superior to those of base metals and other bimetallic composites.•The pronounced bonding strength is mainly attributed to the formation of LPSO structures and kink-deformation bands.