Effect of the Zn content on the microstructure and mechanical properties of indirect-extruded Mg–5Sn–xZn alloys

Mg–5Sn–xZn alloys with varying Zn contents were subjected to indirect extrusion and the effects of the Zn content on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the as-extruded alloys were investigated. It was found that, the grain size and the basal texture are basically similar, however, the amount of fine particles consisting of Mg2Sn and MgZn phases increases markedly as the Zn content increases. A higher number of these particles would be responsible for the better comprehensive mechanical properties as well as a lower degree of yield asymmetry.

Research highlights
► Mg–5Sn–xZn alloys with varying Zn contents were subjected to indirect extrusion.
► Grain size and texture after extrusion are basically similar but a little change.
► Amount of fine particles increase markedly with the Zn increasing.
► More particles lead to a better comprehensive properties and lower yield asymmetry.