Influence of processing technology on phase transformations in a rare-earth-containing Mg–Zn–Zr alloy

An investigation was carried out into the effect of annealing on the precipitation processes and stability of the microstructure in the magnesium alloy Mg-3 wt.% Zn-1 wt.% Nd-0.5 wt.% Zr produced by various solidification conditions. The alloy was produced by squeeze casting and spray forming with and without subsequent extrusion. The phase transformations were studied by means of relative electrical resistivity changes during isochronal annealing in the temperature range from 293 to 783 K. The microstructure of selected states was analyzed by transmission electron microscopy.