Effect of solution treatment on the microstructure, tensile properties, and corrosion behavior of the Mg-5Sn-2Zn-0.1Mn alloy

Abstract

Working on magnesium alloys containing relatively inexpensive alloying elements such as tin, zinc, and manganese have been a target for many studies. The binary Mg-Sn and Mg-Zn systems have a wide range of solid solubility which make them heat-treatable alloys. In the present study, the microstructure, tensile properties, and corrosion behavior of the Mg-5Sn-2Zn-0.1Mn alloy was studied in the as cast state and after heat treatment at a temperature reaching 450 degrees C for about 24 h. It was found that a noticeable enhancement in strength and corrosion resistance was achieved through heat treatment. The strength of the as cast alloy increased from 76.24 +/- 6.21 MPa to 187.33 +/- 10.3 MPa, while the corrosion rate decreased from 1.129 to 0.399 mmy(-1).