Effects Of Re Additions On As-Cast Microstructure And Mechanical Properties Of Az31 Magnesium Alloy

The effects of RE on the as-cast microstructure and mechanical properties of AZ31 magnesium alloy were investigated. The results indicate that the as-cast microstructure of the AZ31 magnesium alloy is refined obviously by adding RE. When 0.3% RE is added, it is made up of Al-rich alpha-Mg matrix, uniformly distributed beta-Mg17Al12 and new intermetallic phase Al11Ce3. Brinell hardness, tensile strength and elongation of the experimental alloy are increased by 10.3%, 9.5% and 11.8% respectively, but the impact toughness is reduced 12%.