Effects of Nd addition on microstructure and mechanical properties of Mg–6Zn–1Mn–4Sn alloy

Abstract The effects of Nd addition on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Mg–6Zn–1Mn–4Sn alloy have been investigated. The results show that α-Mg, α-Mn, Mg 7 Zn 3 , Mg 2 Sn and MgSnNd phases are found in the as-cast Nd-containing alloys. The MgSnNd phase is a high temperature phase which can enhance the age hardening response of the heat-treated alloys. The ZMT614–1.5Nd alloy under the extruded and aged states exhibits higher strength. This is mainly attributed to the fine grains after extruding and high number density of rod-shaped β 1 ′ precipitates in the α-Mg matrix after aging, respectively.