Effect of Bi addition on microstructures and mechanical properties of AZ80 magnesium alloy

The effects of Bi addition on the microstructures and mechanical properties of as-cast AZ80 alloy were investigated. The results show that with the addition of Bi, the coarse eutectic phases are refined and become discontinuous; some flaky and granular Mg3Bi2 phases with a hexagonal structure of D52 are observed along the grain boundaries and between dendrites. The tensile strength and elongation increase first, and then decrease with increasing Bi content. AZ80-0.5%Bi alloy has optimum combination mechanical properties. When the content of Bi is above 1.0% (mass fraction), the amount of flaky Mg3Bi2 phase increases markedly, which splits the matrix and deteriorates the tensile strength and elongation.