Precipitation microstructure and age-hardening response of an Mg-Gd-Nd-Zn-Zr alloy

► The precipitate phases known as β″, β′ and β1 form during the ageing at 200 °C. ► The solute elements Nd, Zn and Gd partition significantly into the precipitates. ► β1 precipitates produce more effective strengthening effect than β″ precipitates.