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

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-Mg17Al12 and Al8Mn5 in the all of alloys. In addition to, Al81Mn19 phase was found with Ag additive. Besides, the amount of β-Mg17Al12 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-Mg17Al12 phase with addition of Ag. Furthermore, existence of Al81Mn19 phase can be acted an important role in the increase on the mechanical properties of the alloys.

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► X-ray diffractometry reveals that the main phases are α-Mg, α-Ti, β-Mg17Al12 and Al8Mn5 in the base alloy.
► With addition of silver, Al81Mn19 phase was found.
► The mechanical properties of the base alloy are improved with addition of silver.
► The fracture surface of base alloy shows relatively deeper and more amount of dimples than that of alloys containing silver.