Multivariate-aided mapping of rare-earth partitioning in a wrought magnesium alloy

The formability of wrought magnesium alloys can be dramatically improved by the addition of trace rare-earth elements, which can weaken the recrystallized texture. Improving the understanding of this texture-weakening mechanism requires knowledge of the precise location of the solute species in the microstructure. Here we study the partitioning of the trace alloying elements in a rare-earth magnesium alloy using analytical electron microscopy and atom probe tomography, combined with multivariate statistical methods. The analysis reveals partitioning of solutes to grain boundaries and precipitate-matrix interfaces.