Effect of solution treatment on the microstructure, tensile properties, and corrosion behavior of the Mg–5Sn–2Zn–0.1Mn alloy

Working on magnesium alloys containing relatively inexpensive alloying elements such as tin, zinc, and manganese have been a target for many studies. The binary Mg–Sn and Mg–Zn systems have a wide range of solid solubility which make them heat-treatable alloys. In the present study, the microstructure, tensile properties, and corrosion behavior of the Mg–5Sn–2Zn–0.1Mn alloy was studied in the as cast state and after heat treatment at a temperature reaching 450 °C for about 24 h. It was found that a noticeable enhancement in strength and corrosion resistance was achieved through heat treatment. The strength of the as cast alloy increased from 76.24 ± 6.21 MPa to 187.33 ± 10.3 MPa, while the corrosion rate decreased from 1.129 to 0.399 mm y⁻¹. (paper)