SYNTHESIS OF NANO ALUMINA REINFORCED MAGNESIUM-ALLOY COMPOSITES

The main aim of this paper was to determine the amount of Al2O3 reinforcement that results into best combination of strength. Magnesium nano composites containing 3.5, 7.0 and 14 volume percentage of Al2O3 were synthesized through powder metallurgy route. Resistance of furnace sintering technique (heating rate: 49°C/min).Micro structural characterization revealed reasonably uniform distribution of Al2O3 particulates in the matrix and the presence of nanopores. Thermo mechanical analysis revealed significant reduction in CTE of magnesium as a result of presence of alumina nano particulates. Mechanical characterization studies revealed that hardness, work of flexural strength of pure Mg increased when 3.5, 7.0 and 14 vol. % of nano alumina reinforcements are added into Mg matrix. Where as 14 vol.% is revealed that decrease the strength of hardness. The studies revealed that the best combination of mechanical properties is realized from the compositecontaining 7 volume percentage of alumina.