Strengthening and Thermally Activated Processes in an AX61/Saffil Metal Matrix Composite

AX61 magnesium alloy was reinforced with short Saffil fibres using squeeze cast technology. Samples were cut from the casting in two directions: parallel and perpendicular to the fibre plane. Samples were deformed in compression at various temperatures from room temperature to 300 °C. Various strengthening mechanisms such as load transfer, increased dislocation density, Orowan and Hall–Petch strengthening were analysed. During deformation, the...