Microstructure and mechanical properties of an indirect-extruded Mg–8Sn–1Al–1Zn alloy

The microstructure and mechanical properties of an indirect-extruded Mg–8Sn–1Al–1Zn (TAZ811) alloy were investigated and compared with those of a commercial Mg–3Al–1Zn (AZ31) alloy. In the extruded condition, the TAZ811 alloy shows a much smaller grain size but a stronger basal texture than the AZ31 alloy. In addition, the TAZ811 alloy contains fine Mg2Sn particles in the microstructure, whereas the AZ31 alloy reveals relatively coarse and sparse Al–Mn particles. The TAZ811 alloy showed tensile and compressive strengthening as well as a reduction in yield asymmetry between tension and compression, which is mainly due to grain refinement and the presence of fine Mg2Sn particles.