Effect of Friction Stir Processing on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of a Cast-Magnesium-Rare Earth Alloy

Single-pass friction stir processing (FSP) was used to increase the mechanical properties of a cast Mg-Zn-Zr-rare earth (RE) alloy, Elektron 21. A fine grain size was achieved through intense plastic deformation and the control of heat input during processing. The effects of processing and heat treatment on the mechanical and microstructural properties were evaluated. An aging treatment of 16 hours at 200 degrees C resulted in a 0.2 pct proof stress of 275 MPa in the FSP material, a 61 pct improvement over the cast + T6 condition.