Influence of silver addition on the microstructure and mechanical properties of squeeze cast Mg–6Al–1Sn–0.3Mn–0.3Ti

Abstract

In this study, the effect of silver (0, 0.2, 0.5, and 1 wt.%) on the microstructure and mechanical properties of a magnesium-based alloy (Mg–Al 6 wt.%–Sn 1 wt.%–Mn 0.3 wt.%–Ti 0.3 wt.%) were investigated. The alloys were produced under a controlled atmosphere by a squeeze-casting process. X-ray diffractometry revealed that the main phases are α-Mg, α-Ti, β-Mg 17Al 12 and Al 8Mn 5 in the all of alloys. In addition to, Al 81Mn 19 phase was found with Ag additive. Besides, the amount of β-Mg 17Al 12 phase was decreased with increasing the amount of Ag. The strength of the base alloy was increased by solid solution mechanism and decreasing the amount of β-Mg 17Al 12 phase with addition of Ag. Furthermore, existence of Al 81Mn 19 phase can be acted an important role in the increase on the mechanical properties of the alloys.