Alloy Development, Microstructural, and Mechanical Behaviour of Mg–Ce Based Alloys

Lightweight magnesium (Mg) alloys attract great attention for automotive applications, especially in power train components. It acknowledges the potential of rare earth elements, specifically cerium (Ce), as an alloying addition to enhance the mechanical properties of Mg alloys at both room and high temperatures. However, its precise role is not yet well understood, particularly regarding nano-scale phase transformations, interface-solute segregations, and their effect on mechanical behaviour. To address this knowledge gap, the study focuses on design of Mg–Ce based alloys with further alloying additions of Dy, Gd, and Zr for high temperature applications. More specifically, we investigate the evolution of strengthening metastable and stable precipitates and their influence on their mechanical properties. A thorough microstructural analysis of the alloys using Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), and Atom Probe Tomography (APT) will be presented.