Influence of phase composition on microstructure and properties of Mg-5Al-0.4Mn-xRE (x = 0, 3 and 5 wt.%) alloys

The microstructure and mechanical properties investigations of two AME503 and AME505 experimental alloys in as-cast conditions were presented. The investigated materials were fabricated on the basis of the AM50 commercial magnesium alloy with 3 and 5 wt.% cerium rich mischmetal. In the as-cast condition, both experimental alloys were mainly composed of α-Mg, Al11RE3 and Al10RE2Mn7 intermetallic phases. Additionally, due to non-equilibrium solidification conditions, a small amount of α + γ divorced eutectic and Al2RE intermetallic phase were revealed. The obtained results also show a significant influence of rare earth elements on Brinell hardness, tensile and compression properties at ambient temperature and especially on creep properties at 473 K. Improved alloy properties with a rise in rare earth elements mass fraction results from an increase in Al11RE3 phase volume fraction and suppression of α + γ eutectic volume fraction in the alloy microstructure. Additionally, the influence of rare earth elements on the dendrite arm space value was discussed. The presented results also proved the thermal stability of the intermetallic phases during creep testing.