The effects and improvements of GNPs+CNTs on the mechanical properties and microstructure of AZ80 matrix composite

AZ80 magnesium alloy reinforced by hybrid carbonaceous phase (GNPs + CNTs) is fabricated using semi-solid casting (rheocast) followed by hot extrusion (430 °C) processes through cost efficiency. This study presents the efficiency of GNPs + CNTs reinforcement in the enhancement of mechanical properties of AZ80 matrix composite with the insight of texture and microstructure evaluations. Pre-dispersed GNPs + CNTs as a network structure reinforcement provides the fairly homogeneous dispersion of GNPs + CNTs into the AZ80 matrix. Related to AZ80 alloy, the composite with only 0.1 wt% GNPs + CNTs illustrate 112%, 148%, and 277% enhancement in yield strength, fracture strain, and toughness up to 231 MPa, 10.9%, and 3156%, respectively. It reveals an extraordinary efficiency of strengthening and toughening of 1400 and 3469, respectively.