Microstructure and Elevated Temperature Properties of Die-cast AZ91-xNd magnesium alloy

The effect of Nd addition on the microstructure and mechanical properties of a die-cast AZ91 alloy was investigated in the present work. The results show that the die-cast AZ91 alloy is composed of alpha-Mg matrix and gamma-Mg17Al12 phase. Nd addition into the AZ91 alloy leads to the formation of rare earth containing intermetallic phase. Al4Nd phase forms when Nd content is less than or equal to 1.0 wt.%. Al2Nd phase appears simultaneously when Nd content reaches to 3.0 wt.%.