Simultaneously Improving Strength and Ductility of Magnesium using Nano-size SiC Particulates and Microwaves

Magnesium composites containing nano‐size SiC particulates were synthesized using powder metallurgy technique incorporating microwave assisted rapid sintering. Microstructural characterization revealed minimal porosity and the presence of a continuous network of nano‐size SiC particulates decorating the particle boundaries of the metal matrix. Mechanical characterization revealed that the addition of nano‐size SiC particulates lead to a simultaneous increase in microhardness, 0.2% yield strength, ultimate tensile strength and ductility of the matrix.