Effect of Alloying Elements and Processing Techniques on the Properties of Some Magnesium Alloys

Abstract

The former two decades have witnessed an obvious rise in the usage of magnesium and its alloys in the fields of automobiles, aerospace, electronics, structural applications, and biomedical implants, (cardiovascular or orthopedic). However, poor mechanical properties, low formability, and severe corrosion susceptibility are the most challenges that claim more research in the field of magnesium development. Previous studies have worked on new systems of magnesium alloys comprising relatively inexpensive alloying elements (ex: tin, zinc, and manganese). The present study is investigating the mechanical properties and corrosion behavior of Mg-5Sn-xZn alloy prepared by different processing techniques, where x takes the values of 2 and 4 wt.%. These alloys were studied in the as cast, as solution treated, and hot formed (rolled, and extruded) in relation to the commercially pure magnesium. As an intention to enrich the resistance of corrosion, the minor addition of Mn (~0.1%) is included. A series of advanced techniques were involved in the present study so as to examine the alloy content [inductively coupled plasma spectrometry (ICP)], microstructure [optical microscopy (OM) and scanning electronic microscopy (SEM)], the morphology and dispersal of the precipitates [energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD)], mechanical properties and corrosion tendency [electrochemical polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS)].