High-strength extruded Mg96Ni2Y1RE1 alloy exhibiting superplastic behaviour

Microstructural and mechanical characterisation of Mg96Ni2Y1RE1 alloy have been performed in the 25-400 degrees C temperature range. The material was processed by melting, casting and subsequent extrusion at 400 degrees C. The microstructure of the extruded material showed the alignment of several phases (Mg12RE, Mg2Ni and a long periodic ordered phase) along the magnesium dendrites. This microstructure provides high strength up to 250 degrees C, which has been correlated with load transfer from the matrix to the intermetallic phases. At higher temperatures the material exhibits superplastic behaviour. (C) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.