Processing, microstructure and mechanical properties of magnesium matrix nanocomposites fabricated by semisolid stirring assisted ultrasonic vibration

• SiCp/AZ91 nanocomposite was fabricated by semisolid assisted ultrasonic vibration. • Grain size of alloy matrix in the SiCp/AZ91 nanocomposites is decreased. • Tensile strength and elongation of the nanocomposite are simultaneously improved. Particulate reinforced magnesium matrix nanocomposites were fabricated by semisolid stirring assisted ultrasonic vibration. Compared with the as-cast AZ91 alloy, the grain size of matrix alloy in the SiCp/AZ91 nanocomposite stirring for 5 min was significantly decreased due to the addition of SiC nanoparticles. SiC nanoparticles within the grains exhibited homogeneous distribution although some SiC clusters still existed along the grain boundaries in the SiCp/AZ91 nanocomposite stirring for 5 min. With increasing the stirring time, agglomerates of SiC nanoparticles located along the grain boundaries increased. The ultimate tensile strength, yield strength and elongation to fracture of the SiCp/AZ91 nanocomposite stirring for 5 min were simultaneously improved compared with the as-cast AZ91 alloy. However, the ultimate tensile strength and elongation to fracture of the SiCp/AZ91 nanocomposite decreased with increasing the stirring time.