Mechanical property evaluation of second phase particles in a Mg–8Al-0.5Zn alloy using micropillar compression

Abstract This study investigates the mechanical properties of the second phase particles and Mg-matrix in a Mg–8Al-0.5Zn cast alloy by compression of machined micropillars. The stress-strain behavior showed that the Mg17Al12 particles exhibited a sudden and unusual failure after a significant strain burst. The Al8Mn5 particles were much more ductile, but also much stronger.