AUTHOR=Zang Qianhao , Li Xiaowen , Chen Hongmei , Zhang Jing , Wang Ling , Chen Shujin , Jin Yunxue , Lu Sheng 

TITLE=Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of AZ31/ZrO2 Composites Prepared by Friction Stir Processing With High Rotation Speed

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Materials

VOLUME=7

YEAR=2020

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/materials/articles/10.3389/fmats.2020.00278

DOI=10.3389/fmats.2020.00278

ISSN=2296-8016

ABSTRACT=<p>The nano-ZrO<sub>2</sub>-reinforced AZ31 alloy composites were fabricated by friction stir processing with three multi-passes and high rotation speeds. The AZ31/2.14 vol% ZrO<sub>2</sub>, AZ31/4.29 vol% ZrO<sub>2,</sub> and AZ31/6.43 vol% ZrO<sub>2</sub> composites were designed. The fine microstructure and uniform dispersion of ZrO<sub>2</sub> particles were observed in the AZ31/ZrO<sub>2</sub> composites. The excellent interfacial bonding was observed between the Mg matrix and ZrO<sub>2</sub>. The hardness and tensile properties were enhanced after three cumulative friction stir processing passes. This was attributed to grain refinement and strengthening effects of ZrO<sub>2</sub>. The tensile properties and hardness of the AZ31/ZrO<sub>2</sub> composite increased with the increase of volume fraction of the ZrO<sub>2</sub> particles from 2.14 to 6.43 vol%.</p>