Abstract
A randomly orientated short carbon fibre reinforced magnesium composite consisting of Sigrafil C25 high strength carbon fibres in a matrix of AZ91D magnesium alloy has been fabricated by indirect squeeze casting. This was subjected to tensile testing at room temperature, and 150, 200, 300, and 350°C. Composite properties have been compared to monolithic AZ91D. Both unreinforced and reinforced materials were heat treated to the T6 condition. Results indicated that composites exhibited good strengthening over temperatures above 200°C. Changes in strength with test temperature were reflected in fracture surface morphology. Characterisation of the failure modes and composite microstructure was carried out using optical, scanning- and transmission-electron microscopy. The more effective use of the reinforcing phase at elevated temperatures and the general behaviour of the short fibre composite have been discussed in terms of features observed in the materials tested.
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