National Research Tomsk State University, Tomsk, Russia:

A. P. Khrustalev, Senior Researcher at Metallurgical Nanotechnology Laboratory, Candidate of Physics and Mathematics Sciences, e-mail: tofik0014@gmail.com
I. A. Zhukov, Head of Metallurgical Nanotechnology Laboratory, Doctor of Technical Sciences
E. S. Marchenko, Head of Superelastic Biointerfaces Laboratory, Doctor of Physics and Mathematics Sciences, Associate Professor
A. B. Vorozhtsov, Vice Rector for Research and Innovation, Head of High-Energy and Special Materials Laboratory, Doctor of Physics and Mathematics Sciences, Professor

Many of the current research studies focus on obtaining and examining new light alloys strengthened with non-metallic particles, meant for application in various industries. Casting provides the most universal approach to the production of light alloys. The high strength of diamond nanoparticles can be utilized for effective strengthening of the metal matrix, when a small amount of nanoparticles added translate into enhanced mechanical properties. However, introducing nanoparticles into the melt is not easy, as due to poor surface wettability of such particles, they tend to form agglomerates and float on the melt surface. External impacts on molten metal during casting help raise the surface wettability of micro- and nanoparticles and ensure their even distribution. The authors obtained and examined a Mg – Ca – Zn alloy dispersion strengthened with diamond nanoparticles. Pure magnesium, metallic zinc, calcium and detonation-synthesized diamond nanopowder were used as initial materials. The master alloy was produced from a Mg – 5% nanodiamond powder mix by impact-wave compacting. The authors examined the elemental and phase compositions, as well as the structure and physico-mechanical properties of the obtained alloys after casting. The structural study showed that the diamond nanoparticles produce a modifying effect on the microstructure by making the average grain size of magnesium alloy smaller. Grain refinement and introduction of particles into the magnesium matrix helped raise the yield strength, the tensile strength, as well as the tensile and compression ductility of magnesium alloy.
This research was funded by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation; Agreement No. 075-15-2021-1384.

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