Effect of heat treatments on oxidation kinetics in AZ91 and AM60 magnesium alloys

The effect of heat treatments on a non protective atmosphere (air) on the morphology and composition of the oxide in AM60 and AZ91 alloys has been evaluated. With the aim of evaluating the loss of alloying elements during heat treatment, a study of these alloys has been carried out using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). In order to determine the nature of the oxides the reaction products generated were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. Results show that the nature and morphology of the oxides generated are related to the temperature and the time of the heating conditions applied.

► The effect of heat treatments on the oxide growth in Mg-Al alloys has been evaluated.
► The nature and morphology of the oxides have been characterized.
► These oxides are associated to the time and the temperature conditions.