Microstructure and mechanical properties of steel wire reinforced Mg matrix composites fabricated by composite extrusion

The Steel/Mg composites were prepared using the composite extrusion method, where AZ31 Mg alloy was used as the matrix and Zn-coated steel wire as the reinforcement. The microstructure evolution and mechanical properties of these composites were systematically studied. The results show that there is an interdiffusion phenomenon of Mg and Zn elements at the interface of the prepared Steel/Mg composites, and an interdiffusion layer with a width of about 15 μm is formed and MgZn and Mg7Zn3 compounds are produced. The inclusion of steel wire in the Mg alloy matrix can significantly reduce its texture strength. Steel/Mg composites have higher tensile and compressive strength than Mg–R. This study provides a novel, time-saving and low-cost method for the manufacture of continuous fiber reinforced metal matrix composites(CFRMMCs), and expands the application of metal composites.