Structural, Physical and Mechanical Properties of Mg-Al Alloys Processed under CO2 Atmosphere

Abstract

Magnesium alloys are the lightest structural materials known that are increasingly replacing steel and aluminium. However, due to its flammable nature, protective atmospheres are employed during Mg-alloy production. In this novel work, Mg-Al alloys with ~3 and ~5 wt.% Al were processed in CO2atmosphere, so as to utilize the CO2during the melting process. The cast Mg-Al alloys were extruded and studied for their structural, physical and mechanical properties. Results showed improvements in mechanical properties such as hardness, tensile strength and compressive yield strength. The improvement in properties was attributed to thein situformation of Al4C3arising due to molten metal-carbon interaction. It is noteworthy that the incorporation of CO2during processing did not adversely affect the mechanical properties of the alloys. Further, the process is eco-friendly as it not only utilized CO2, but also eliminates use of harmful cover gases.