Microstructure and Properties of Magnesium Matrix Composites with Fe-Si Intermetallic Compound Layer Fabricated by In Situ Reaction

The Fe-Si intermetallic compound layer and magnesium matrix composites were fabricated by exothermic reaction method with Fe-Mg-SiO2 reactive system. The microstructure and chemical composition were analyzed by SEM and EDS. The results show that the FeSi2.5 intermetallic compound layers were formed on the surface of magnesium matrix composites and its thickness increased with the increase of reactive temperature, prolongation of reactive time and rise of pre-pressure. The average thickness and hardness of the layer were over 95 μm and 557 HV, respectively. The distribution of MgO particles formed by in situ reaction was even and its size was smaller than 2 μm.