Design considerations for achieving simultaneously high-strength and highly ductile magnesium alloys

Abstract

A comprehensive scheme of phase configuration optimization in the Mg–Zn–Ca(–Zr) system by thermodynamic simulations and microstructural analyses is presented. A composition window of 0.2–0.4 wt% Ca and 5–6 wt% Zn is defined as optimal for establishing a complex heterogeneous microstructure allowing for enhanced ductility and simultaneously high strength of the material. Literature data analysis and our own results confirm the enhanced performance of alloys from this composition window.

Keywords:

• magnesium alloys
• high strength
• high ductility
• thermodynamic simulations

Acknowledgments

This work was supported by the Austrian Institute of Technology within the framework of the “Biocompatible Materials and Applications” project, and the Staub/Kaiser Foundation (Switzerland).