Mapping the Mechanical Properties of Alloyed Magnesium (AZ 61)

In this work, an advanced form of nanoindentation is used to map the mechanical properties of AZ 61. The probed area includes both alpha (Mg-rich) and beta (Al12Mg17) phases. The measured moduli of the two phases compare well with expected values. The hardness of the beta phase is three times greater than that of the alpha phase. The hardness map reveals an area of intermediate hardness surrounding the beta phase. This zone is a mesophase which is chemically distinct and may influence the mechanical behavior of the alloy in unexpected ways.