Characterization and prediction of microstructure in Al–Zn–Mg alloys

The resulting microstructure obtained in solidified Al–Zn–Mg alloys was characterized and predicted using the vertical section in 5.3 at.% Zn of the ternary Al–Zn–Mg phase diagram together with thermal analysis data and multicomponent equations for dendrite and intermetallic growth. In addition, results of characterization and prediction of microstructure were used to select an appropriated Al–Zn–Mg alloy composition which can be used as Al-anode for cathodic protection applications of structures expose to marine environments against corrosion.