Effects of cerium on as-cast microstructure and mechanical properties of Mg-3Sn-2Ca magnesium alloy

The Mg-3Sn-2Ca-xCe (x = 0-2.0 wt.%) alloys were prepared by permanent mould casting method, the effects of Ce on the as-cast microstructure and mechanical properties of the alloys were investigated. The results indicated that the volume fraction and size of CaMgSn phase in the Mg-3Sn-2Ca alloy respectively were decreased by adding 0.5-2.0 wt.%Ce, and the average size of CaMgSn phase in the Mg-3Sn-2Ca alloys added 1.5 or 2.0 wt.%Ce was relatively smaller. The main phases in the as-cast Mg-3Sn-2Ca alloys with and without adding Ce were α-Mg, CaMgSn and Mg2Ca phases, and Mg12Ce phase were found in the alloys added more than 1.0 wt.%Ce. The addition of Ce improved the tensile and creep properties of Mg-3Sn-2Ca alloy, and the mechanical properties of Mg-3Sn-2Ca alloys added 1.5 or 2.0 wt.%Ce were relatively higher. The strengthening mechanism of Ce-containing Mg-3Sn-2Ca alloys was mainly attributed to the refinement of CaMgSn phase.