Synthesis and characterization of Mg-based amorphous alloys and their use for decolorization of Azo dyes

Abstract

Mg-based alloys are light weight and have wide range of applications in the automotive industry. These alloys are widely used because of their very attractive physical and mechanical properties and corrosion resistance. The properties and applications can be further improved by changing the nature of materials from crystalline to amorphous. In this study, melt spun ribbons (MSRs) of Mg70Zn25Ca5 Mg68Zn27Ca5 alloys were prepared by melt spinning technique by using 3-4N pure metals. Characterization of the samples was done by X-ray diffraction (XRD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and energy dispersive x-ray analyzer (EDAX). Microstructural investigations were conducted by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM) as well as optical and stereo scan microscopy techniques. DSC results showed multistage crystallization. Activation energy was found to be 225 kJ/mol by Kissinger method indicating good thermal stability against crystallization. XRD, DSC, SEM and EDS (energy dispersive spectroscopy) results are agreed very well. In order to study decolorization, the MSRs of Mg70Zn25Ca5 Mg68Zn27Ca5 alloys were treated repeatedly with various azo dyes at room temperature. In order to compare the results, MSRs of amorphous Zr- and Ni-based metallic glasses were also treated. Reaction of MSRs with azo dyes results in their decolorization in a few hours. Decolorization of azo dyes takes place by introducing amorphous MSRs which results in breaking the -N=N- bonds that exist in dye contents. It is concluded that Mg-based alloys are useful for paint and dye industries and will be beneficial to control water pollution. Comparison of results showed that Mg-based alloys are more efficient than Zr- and Ni-based amorphous alloys for decolorization of azo dyes.