Effect of TiC Nanoparticles on Solidification Processing and Properties of Al–1.4Mg–0.8Si Alloy

Nanoparticles have been used to facilitate processing and strengthen Al alloys in solidification processing. However, the potential reactivity of Si and its compounds (e.g., β-Mg2Si) with TiC nanoparticles at high temperatures makes solidification processing challenging for Al–Mg–Si containing TiC nanoparticles. Given the broad applications of Al–Mg–Si alloys, how TiC nanoparticles affect its solidification processing and resultant properties is of significance. Here, we systematically studied the modified phase and composition by TiC nanoparticles in as-cast and heat-treated Al–Mg–Si alloys. The interaction between TiC- and Si-rich phases like β-Mg2Si has been analyzed. The mechanical performance including hardness and tensile properties, and fractography have been studied and correlated with the TiC-induced nano-treating effects. This study provides useful insights to develop high-performance Al–Mg–Si alloys with ceramic nanoparticles.