Tensile and Fatigue Behavior of Aluminum Oxide Fiber Reinforced Magnesium Composites: Part II. Alloying Effects

The effect of matrix alloy additions on mechanical properties was examined by comparing the tensile and fatigue properties of commercially pure magnesium and ZE41A (Mg-4.25 Zn-0.5 Zr-1.25 RE) which were both reinforced with FP aluminum oxide fibers. The alloy additions were found to improve the off-axis properties but decrease the axial properties. This was brought about by an increase in the matrix and interfacial strengths and a decrease in the fiber strength. It was also determined that the reaction zone in both materials was MgO and that strengthening of the interface was due to an increased particle size and/or a thicker reaction zone and not to any segregation of alloying elements to the interface.