Microstructure and corrosion behavior of Mg–Zn–Ag alloys

The majority of Mg components currently in use in the automotive and electronic industries are produced by conventional casting processes. However, there is a strong need to develop new high strength wrought alloys for wide-spread application of Mg alloys in near future. In the present study, new Mg–Zn–Ag alloys were developed and characterized. In order to evaluate the effects of Ag addition on the mechanical properties of the extruded Mg–Zn alloys, the age hardening response and mechanical properties were examined with different amounts of alloying element. The microstructures of the specimens were examined with optical microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The grain sizes of the alloys in as-extruded condition were markedly reduced with the addition of Ag. The hardness was found to increase more rapidly in the alloys with double aging treatment compared to those with single aging treatment. The peak hardness was also found to be higher in the alloys with double aging treatment. In all heat treatment conditions, the hardnesses of the Mg–Zn–Ag alloys were found to be higher than those of the Mg–Zn alloys. Moreover, the addition of Ag to the Mg–Zn alloys increased the corrosion rate measured by immersion test.