Abstract
Mg-2 wt.% Li matrix composites unidirectionally reinforced with T300 and Granoc carbon fibres (∼ 45 vol.%) were prepared by the gas pressure infiltration technique. Lithium alloying stimulates the interfacial bond formation and at the same time causes the damage of carbon fibres by Li₂C₂ formation. Auger electron spectroscopy was used to detect Li₂C₂ inside the carbon fibres. The maximum flexural strength (1210 MPa) was achieved in Mg₂Li/T300 composites at the shortest infiltration time (5 s) and then decreased monotonously with infiltration time prolongation (up to 60 s). Strengthening in Mg2Li/Granoc composites was much lower when maximum bending strength of 579 MPa was reached.

Key words
magnesium composites, magnesium-lithium composites, T300 carbon fibres, Granoc carbon fibres, lithium carbide, reactive wetting

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