Application of the Hot Press Method to Produce New Mg Alloys: Characterization, Mechanical Properties, and Effect of Al Addition

Abstract

The production of magnesium alloys by the powder metallurgy (P/M) method is difficult and troublesome. An alternative production method with easy usability is therefore required, and the properties of new Mg alloys should be examined after production. A type of P/M method (the hot press method) can be applied to produce new Mg alloys with superior properties. In this study, the effect of Al addition and the use of the hot press method on the microstructure and mechanical properties of magnesium alloy were investigated. TZA series magnesium alloys (Mg5Sn4Zn-xAl) were developed, and these alloys were produced in this way for the first time. The paraffin coating technique was applied to prevent the risk of ignition or oxidation of the Mg powders during the mixing process. The experimental results showed that new non-porous Mg alloys with a relative density above 99% were successfully produced using the hot press method. Intermetallic phases were homogeneously distributed at the grain boundaries due to the use of the hot press process. The amount of Mg17Al12 phase in the microstructure increased with the addition of more Al, and this improved the mechanical properties. TZA544 magnesium alloy exhibits mechanical properties that are superior to those of many magnesium alloys in current use.