Microstructures and mechanical properties of the extruded Mg-4Y-2Gd-xZn-0.4Zr alloys

Microstructures and mechanical properties of the Mg-4Y-2Gd-0.4Zr alloy with Zn additions have been investigated. The investigation suggests that the mechanical properties of the alloys have been greatly improved after hot extrusion due to the refinement of microstructures, especially the elongations. The extruded Mg-4Y-2Gd-1.0Zn-0.4Zr alloy displays excellent tensile properties. The ultimate tensile strength and the yield tensile strength are 291 and 228 MPa, respectively, with an elongation of 28%. The additions of Zn have an obvious effect on refining microstructure of the extruded alloys, and the vicker hardness increases with increasing Zn additions. The age hardening responses of the extruded alloys have been investigated at 220 degrees C. These alloys display unobvious ageing hardness responses. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.