HRTEM Observation of the Age Hardening Precipitates in Mg-Zn Alloy

The age hardening precipitates of Mg-4.7mass%Zn alloy aged at 423K,473K were studied by using high-resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM). Contrasts of mono layers were confirmed to exist on the (0001) and (1100) matrix planes. It was considered that the contrast of mono layer was plate-like shape, and identified as pre-precipitates from as-quenched stage to early stage of aging at 473K for 32h . In the peak aged specimen of aged at 473K, the β1’ phase was observed. The β1’ phase has a rod-like shape and parallel to c-axis of Mg matrix. It can be observed orientation relationship between Mg matrix and β1’phase has not only same parts to previous reports but also different parts in one β1’ phase .