Effect of quasicrystal phase particle dispersion on mechanical properties in Mg-Zn-Al alloys

Abstract

Four kinds of Mg-x mass%Zn-y mass%Al (x = 6, 8, 10, 12 and y = 3, 4, 5, 6) alloys, each with a grain size of 2∼3 μm and containing quasicrystal phase particles, were successfully produced by casting and extrusion. These rare-earth free wrought processed magnesium alloys showed a reduction in mechanical asymmetry and a weak basal texture. Although the yield strength improved, the elongation decreased with increasing volume fraction of quasicrystal phase particle. The decrease in ductility was related to the existence of coarse quasicrystal phase particles. The strength was affected by the interface strength mechanism; however, the coherency strain in the quasicrystal phase was smaller than that in the conventional phase, due to the strong matching between the matrix and the quasicrystal phase. © 2011 The Japan Institute of Metals.