Effects of cerium on the microstructure and mechanical properties of AZ31 alloy

AZ31 alloy with Ce addition was studied. The influence of Ce contents on the microstructure and tensile properties of the alloy was analyzed. Ce addition results in the formation of Al4Ce and the annealed microstructure is improved by the addition. There was no recrystallization of the alloy after rolling, however, it did occur after annealing. The alloy can be strengthened by adding Ce and the alloy with 1.05 wt.% Ce possessed the best synthetical properties of all the tested alloys. As rolled, σb and δ of this alloy are 321 MPa and 6.9%, and as annealed, they are 259 MPa and 21.8%.