Application of the CALPHAD approach to Mg-alloys design

Abstract The CALPHAD method can be applied as a tool for both alloy development and process guideline determination. In this study, two Mg alloys were designed, their process parameters derived and, using the CALPHAD method, the final results simulated. These results were later confirmed using tangible experimental methods. It was found that γ - Mg17Al12 precipitates along the grain boundaries (GB), Mg2Sn forms both along the GB and as fine precipitates in the α -Mg matrix and the addition of Ce mishmetal (MM) leads to the formation of elongated Al- rare earth (RE) precipitates along the GB. The microstructural stability at 200 ∘C is high, showing no decrease in microhardness for 32 days. It is shown that the CALPHAD method considerably reduces the effort of alloy design and that the reliability of the results is high.