Fabricating Mg-1Zn-2.9Y/xZrO2 Nanocomposite with Superior Mechanical Properties and Corrosion Resistance by Spark Plasma Sintering
摘要
The reinforcement concentration and sintering temperature critically influence the microstructure and resulting mechanical and corrosion behavior of Mg-based composites. This study optimized the performance of Mg-1Zn-2.9Y/xZrO2 composites fabricated by spark plasma sintering (SPS) at 400-500 °C with 0-1 wt.% ZrO2, compared to conventional sintering (CS). Microstructural characterization (SEM, TEM, EDS, XRD) revealed that Mg grains were surrounded by the secondary phases (Mg7Zn3, Mg24Y5) and ZrO2 particles. Increasing ZrO2 concentration enhanced densification and grain refinement, whereas higher sintering temperature slightly coarsened the grain. The optimum balance of mechanical properties and corrosion resistance was achieved at 0.8 wt.% ZrO2 and 450 °C. Excessive reinforcement caused particle agglomeration and weakened interfaces. The mechanical properties followed the Hall–Petch relationship, correlating with grain refinement and improved density. Enhanced continuity of secondary phases at the grain boundaries reduced corrosion propagation. SPS composite exhibited superior mechanical and corrosion resistance compared to CS counterparts.