Microstructure and mechanical properties of Mg-6Al magnesium alloy with yttrium and neodymium

• Main Authors: Chen Jun, Li Quanan, Li Jianghong
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Foundry Journal Agency 2009-05-01
• Series: China Foundry
• Subjects: Y; Nd; Mg-6Al magnesium alloy; microstructure; elevated mechanical properties
• Online Access: http://www.foundryworld.com/uploadfile/200912133623513.pdf

The effects of rare earth (RE) elements Y and Nd on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Mg-6Al magnesium alloy were investigated. The results show that a proper level of RE elements can obviously refi ne the microstructure of Mg-6Al magnesium alloys, reduce the quantity of β-Mg17Al12 phase and form Al2Y and Al2Nd phases. The combined addition of Y and Nd dramatically enhances the tensile strength of the alloys in the temperature range of 20-175℃. When the content of RE elements is up to 1.8%, the values of tensile strength at room temperature and at 150℃ simultaneously reach their maximum of 253 MPa and 196 MPa, respectively. The main mechanisms of enhancement in the mechanical properties of Mg-6Al alloy with Y and Nd are the grain refi ning strengthening and the dispersion strengthening.