About this Abstract |
| Meeting |
2026 TMS Annual Meeting & Exhibition
|
| Symposium
|
Characterization of Minerals, Metals and Materials 2026 - In-Situ Characterization Techniques
|
| Presentation Title |
Solute Cluster Characterization in Binary Mg–4Zn and Ternary ZX10 Alloys |
| Author(s) |
Jiaqi Dong, Kelvin Xie |
| On-Site Speaker (Planned) |
Jiaqi Dong |
| Abstract Scope |
Mg-based alloys are promising lightweight structural materials, but the mechanisms of solute clustering and their impact on strengthening remain poorly understood. We investigated two aging Mg alloys—binary Mg-4Zn and ternary ZX10—as model systems. Using microhardness testing and advanced TEM-based characterization, we charaterized the Zn-rich solute clusters during early aging. Interestingly, cluster formation in ZX10 led to an immediate hardness increase, while Mg-4Zn showed negligible hardening despite the presence of clusters. This contrast suggests that the strengthening efficiency of clusters is highly alloy-dependent and likely influenced by subtle solute–matrix interactions. Our study sheds light on a previously unexplained phenomenon by revealing how minor alloying elements (e.g., Ca) modify cluster–matrix interactions and mechanical behavior. These findings provide new insight into early-stage strengthening and contribute to a broader understanding of microstructure–property relationships in age-hardening Mg alloys. |
| Proceedings Inclusion? |
Planned: |
| Keywords |
Characterization, Magnesium, |