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 CO₂ atmosphere, so as to utilize the CO₂ during 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 the in situ formation of Al₄C₃ arising due to molten metal-carbon interaction. It is noteworthy that the incorporation of CO₂ during 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.

• Periodical: Advanced Materials Research (Volume 545)
• Pages: 247-250
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/AMR.545.247
• Online since: July 2012
• Authors: Subramanian Jayalakshmi, Khoo Chee Guan, Kuma Joshua, Manoj Gupta
• Keywords: Carbon Dioxide Utilization, Casting, Eco-Processing, Magnesium Alloy, Mechanical Property, Microstructure

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