Magnesium Alloy Development for Automotive Applications

This paper summarizes the development of new cast and wrought magnesium alloys using computational thermodynamics tools and experimental approach. The Mg-Al-Ca alloys show excellent creep resistance due to the formation of high-temperature (Mg,Al)2Ca phase. The Mg-Al-Sn alloys are designed for mechanical properties and corrosion resistance through the optimization of Mg17Al12 and Mg2Sn phases in the microstructure. In the Mg-Zn-Ce system, Zn provides strength through solid solution strengthening while Ce increases the ductility via improved texture. Mg-Nd-Zn is a heat-treatable alloy system based on the precipitation hardening of Mg12Nd phase.