A study on the mechanical and corrosion properties of lead added magnesium alloys

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect adding Pb at different ratios had on the corrosion properties of Mg alloys. Pb, at a rate of 0.2%, 0.5%, and 1%, was added to Mg-10% Al–12Si. The microstructure characterisation, mechanical and corrosion properties of alloys, produced using a casting method was investigated. Light Optical Microscopy (LOM), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) analyses and a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) were used to conduct the microstructure characterisation of investigated alloys. Corrosion tests were performed by suspending the samples of certain sizes into the 3.5% NaCl solutions measuring the weight loss, and also by potentiodynamic polarisation measurements in the same solution. According to corrosion experiment results, Ikor decreased with the addition of Pb, causing an increase in the corrosion resistance.

► Mg is the lightest metal used in structural applications. ► The most important disadvantages of Mg alloys are their low strength and corrosion resistance. ► Different ratios of Pb were added to alloys reinforced with Mg2Si particles. ► According to corrosion tests, corrosion resistance increased with the addition of Pb.