In the quest to enhance the performance of magnesium alloys, a team of researchers from the Harbin Institute of Technology and Shanghai Aerospace Equipment Manufacturing Factory Co., Ltd. has made a significant breakthrough. Led by ZHANG Xuelin, the team investigated the effects of different extrusion temperatures on the corrosion resistance of a novel magnesium alloy, Mg-8Al-0.8Zn-0.2Mn-0.3Ca (AZMX810203), with promising results that could reshape the energy sector.
Magnesium alloys are prized for their cost advantages and good comprehensive properties, but their poor corrosion resistance has limited their widespread application. The team’s study, published in *Cailiao Baohu* (translated to *Materials Protection*), systematically explored the impact of varying extrusion temperatures on the microstructure and corrosion resistance of the AZMX810203 alloy.
The researchers employed a range of techniques, including metallographic microscopy, XRD, SEM, XPS, and electrochemical tests, to analyze the alloy’s behavior under different conditions. They discovered that the optimal heat treatment process involved heating the alloy to 420°C for 24 hours, followed by 450°C for 3 hours, and then aging it at 300°C for 12 hours. This process led to microstructural homogenization and precipitation phase dispersion, significantly enhancing the alloy’s corrosion resistance.
“The key to improving the corrosion resistance of magnesium alloys lies in optimizing the heat treatment and extrusion processes,” explained ZHANG Xuelin, the lead author of the study. “Our findings demonstrate that by carefully controlling these parameters, we can achieve a significant enhancement in the alloy’s performance.”
The study revealed that the corrosion resistance of the alloy followed a “first increase followed by decrease” trend as the extrusion temperature increased. The alloy extruded at 400°C exhibited the best corrosion resistance, with a corrosion rate of just 0.14 mm/a. In contrast, the alloy extruded at 350°C had a much higher corrosion rate of 3.95 mm/a due to intense micro-galvanic effects and the inability to form an effective protective film. The alloy extruded at 450°C showed slightly inferior corrosion resistance compared to the 400°C alloy, as the significant reduction of secondary phases and grain growth weakened the inhibition of corrosion propagation.
These findings have significant implications for the energy sector, where magnesium alloys are increasingly being used in lightweight structures and components. Improved corrosion resistance can extend the lifespan of these components, reducing maintenance costs and enhancing overall performance.
“The potential applications of this research are vast,” said LIU Huafeng, a co-author of the study. “From aerospace to automotive and renewable energy, the enhanced corrosion resistance of magnesium alloys can drive innovation and efficiency in numerous industries.”
The team’s work not only provides a solid theoretical foundation for the engineering applications of AZMX810203 alloy but also paves the way for further research into optimizing the performance of magnesium alloys. As the energy sector continues to evolve, the demand for lightweight, durable, and cost-effective materials will only grow, making this research a crucial step forward in meeting those needs.
In the words of ZHANG Xuelin, “This is just the beginning. The insights gained from this study will guide future developments in the field, pushing the boundaries of what magnesium alloys can achieve.”