Effects of rare earth elements on the microstructure and properties of magnesium alloy AZ91D

The effects of rare earth elements on the microstructure and properties of magnesium alloy AZ91D alloy were studied. The different proportion of rare earth elements was added to the AZ91D and the tensile tests were carried out at different temperatures. The experimental results show that at room temperature or at 120℃ the AZ91D's strength decrease with the increasing amount of the rare earth elements. However, the ductility is improved. The influence of 0.14%Sb (mass fraction) on the AZ91D's strength is like that of rare earth elements (0.2%-0.4%) (mass fraction). Microstructure graphs demonstrate that appropriate amount of rare earth elements (0.1%-0.2%) can fine AZ91D's grain and improve its ductility.