Microstructure and Properties of Mg-RE-Zn Alloys for High Conductivity Parts

Abstract

The relatively low conductivity of conventional Mg-Al alloys often limits their areas of application. Therefore, several attempts to develop new high-conductivity magnesium alloys have been made recently. In this research, A Ce-rich rare-earth (RE)material and zinc were added to magnesium which contained no aluminum. As the RE and Zn content were increased, both the hardness and tensile strength were gradually increased, despite the fact that the electrical conductivity decreased slightly. The effects of an aging treatment on the conductivity and mechanical properties of Mg-RE-Zn alloys were also investigated. The electrical conductivity did not change according to the heat treatment conditions; however, the mechanical properties could be enhanced by proper aging heat treatments.