Effect of nano-Nb2O5 on the microstructure and mechanical properties of AZ31 alloy matrix nanocomposites

In this study, the gravitating mechanical stir casting method was used to fabricating the Nb2O5/AZ31 magnesium matrix nanocomposites. Niobium pentoxide (Nb2O5) used as reinforcement with two different weight percentages (3 wt % and 6 wt %). The influence of Nb2O5 on microstructure and mechanical properties has been investigated. The microstructure analysis showed that the composites are mainly composed of the primary α-magnesium phase and phase β-Mg17Al12 secondary phase. The secondary phase was dispersed evenly along the grain boundary of the Mg phase. The Nb2O5/AZ31 nanocomposites revealed that the grain size and its lamellar shape (β-Mg17Al12) were gradually refined. Different strengthening mechanisms were assessed in terms of their contributions. Results showed that composite material properties of hardness, yield strength, and fracture study were directly related to Nb2O5 as a reinforcement. The maximum values of the mechanical properties were achieved with the addition of 3 wt% Nb2O5 on the AZ31 alloy.