Novel Use of Magnesium Composites to Reduce Weight of Mortar Systems

Magnesium alloys have always been attractive to designers/Engineers due to their low density-only two thirds that of aluminum. However, existing magnesium alloy do not exhibit an adequate combination of castability, creep performance and corrosion resistance as compared to its competitive Al alloys. There is a strong need for Mg alloys with much improved mechanical properties and corrosion properties.. The strength of magnesium alloys can be increased by inserting ceramic phase to produce metal matrix composites. Considerable improvements of the mechanical properties as well as the thermal stability can be achieved through the reinforcement by ceramic fibers or particles. These reinforcements increase the stiffness and strength as well as creep resistance of the composites. Magnesium matrix composites (MMC) show better wear resistance, enhanced strength and creep resistance and keeps low density and good machinability. Despite this advantage, the study of Mg based MMCs remains fairly limited because of its poor corrosion resistance. Therefore, it is important to develop a new generation of Mg based composites that have good mechanical and corrosion properties. During Phase I, it has been demonstrated the feasibility of producing high strength, corrosion resistant magnesium alloy composite rod using our innovative coating design and special fabrication processing for consolidation. During Phase II, Aspen will design the required fabrication technique for larger diameter rod and complex shape larger components towards commercial applications of this magnesium composites. Aspen will evaluate the materials thoroughly and a create a data bank for this materials technology. Phase III will develop prototype manufacturing capacity and transfer the technology for manufacturing in mass scale.