Review on mechanical properties of magnesium (nano)composites developed using energy efficient microwaves

Magnesium (with density, ρ = 1.74 g cc− 1) being ∼35% lighter than aluminium and ∼75% lighter than steel is an attractive and a viable candidate for the fabrication of lightweight structures. Being the designers' choice for weight critical applications, extensive research efforts are underway into the development of magnesium metal matrix composites (Mg-MMCs) through various cost effective fabrication technologies. In recent years, there has been a progressive advancement in utilising the microwave energy to consolidate powder materials, and the present study accentuates the use of energy efficient and environment friendly microwave sintering process to synthesise magnesium based composite materials. The processing advantages of the innovative and cost effective microwave assisted bidirectional rapid sintering technique followed by hot extrusion are first briefly introduced. Subsequently, the properties of various Mg-MMCs containing nanosized ceramic/metal particles, synthesised using this technique, are presented. Special emphasis has been made on the commending mechanical properties displayed by the nanoparticle reinforced Mg composites (Mg-MMNCs). Finally, an account of continuing research initiatives related to the development of novel lightweight Mg composites containing amorphous reinforcement is also highlighted.