Microstructure and Strengthening Behavior in Squeeze Cast Mg-Zn by Addition of Zr

용탕단조 Mg-Zn-Zr 합금의 미세조직 및 강화기구

Microstructural characteristics and strengthening behavior in Mg-5wt%Zn-0.6wtZr alloys have been investigated by a combination of optical, secondary electron and transmission electron microscopy, differential thermal analysis, and hardness and tensile, creep property measurements. The result have been compared with those of Mg-5wt%Zn alloys. The as-squeeze cast microstructure consisted of dendrite ${\alpha}-Mg$, interdendrite or intergranular $Mg_7Zn_3$ and fine dispersoids of $ZnZr_2$. The size of secondary solidification phases in Mg-5wt%Zn-0.6wtZr alloys was significantly smaller than that of the Mg-5wt%Zn alloys due to the existence of fine dispersoid of $ZnZr_2$ which also effected the refinement of grain size. TEM study showed that the main cause of age hardening is formation of fine rodlike ${\beta}_1\;'$ precipitates as well as fine $ZnZr_2$ dispersoids. Due to the observed microstructural characteristics mechanical propeties of Mg-5wt%Zn-0.6wtZr alloys was found to be superior to those of Mg-5wt%Zn alloys.