Abstract

Background: Owing to their lightweight and excellent specific mechanical properties, the utilization of magnesium-based materials promises the desired weight/energy savings in demanding applications. In the recent years, the addition of ceramic reinforcements to magnesium is being extensively researched due to their potential to replace the commercial alloys for structural applications.

Method: One of the major limitations of Mg-based materials (alloys and nanocomposites) targeting aerospace/ high-temperature applications is its poor ignition resistance. In this regard, an attempt is made in this study to develop and characterize the properties of a new Mg / 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2 CaO nanocomposite system in terms of the ignition resistance. Further, microstructural and mechanical properties are also studied to understand the overall effect of CaO addition. The Mg/CaO nanocomposites required for this study were developed using disintegrated melt deposition method followed by hot extrusion.

Results: Microstructural investigation showed significant grain refinement and the presence of Mg2Ca phase along with CaO particles. Evaluation of mechanical properties revealed significant improvements as compared to pure magnesium. Evaluation of ignition properties revealed excellent improvements in ignition temperature relative to magnesium as well as novel and commercial magnesiumbased alloys. The result of this investigation may be useful in further studies in the development of Mg/CaO nanocomposites for future commercial utilization, especially in the aviation, automotive and electronics industries.

Keywords: Magnesium, calcium oxide (CaO), nanocomposites, ignition resistance, microstructure and mechanical properties.

Graphical Abstract