Enhanced mechanical properties of Mg–Al–Zn cast alloy via friction stir processing

Mg–Al–Zn casting was subjected to friction stir processing (FSP) and subsequent aging. FSP resulted in significant breakup and dissolution of the coarse, network-like eutectic β-Mg17Al12 phase distributed at the grain boundaries and remarkable grain refinement, thereby improving significantly the tensile properties of the casting. The FSP Mg–Al–Zn sample exhibited an ultimate tensile strength of 337 MPa and an elongation of 10%. FSP combined with aging is a simple and effective approach to enhance the mechanical properties of Mg–Al–Zn casting.