Abstract
The mechanical properties of short fibre reinforced magnesium and magnesium RZ5 alloy metal matrix composites (MMCs) have been determined in tension and compression. The data show that certain property values are highly dependent on the test method employed for their determination. In particular, values of ultimate strength are consistently greater in compression than in tension, and the MMCs are considerably more ‘deformable’ in compression. However, irrespective of the type of test method employed, the MMC materials exhibit higher Young's moduli, proof stresses, and ultimate strengths than the corresponding unreinforced materials, and much lower ductilities. This investigation also shows that compressive data appear to be affected by the aspect ratio of the test specimen. This effect is particularly pronounced when the length/diameter ratio is less than unity. The fracture behaviour of such specimens also differs from the fracture behaviour of specimens having higher length/diameter ratios.
MST/1498
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