Abstract
The effect of Nd addition on the microstructure and mechanical properties of a die-cast AZ91 alloy was investigated in the present work. The results show that the die-cast AZ91 alloy is composed of α-Mg matrix and γ-Mg17Al12 phase. Nd addition into the AZ91 alloy leads to the formation of rare earth containing intermetallic phase. Al4Nd phase forms when Nd content is less than or equal to 1.0 wt.%. Al2Nd phase appears simultaneously when Nd content reaches to 3.0 wt.%. The size and volume fraction of γ-Mg17Al12 phase decrease, because of the newly formed Al-Nd phase. And the γ-Mg17Al12 phase distributes from reticular to dispersive. Nd addition has a little effect on the room temperature properties of the die-cast AZ91 alloy, but greatly improves the elevated temperature properties. The tensile strength of AZ91-0.5Nd and AZ91-1.0Nd alloy tested at 150 °C is even close to the room temperature strength. The AZ91-1.0Nd alloy has the optimal properties.
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