Microstructures and creep properties of Mg–4Al–(1–4) La alloys produced by different casting techniques

The microstructures, mechanical properties and creep resistance of Mg–4Al–(1–4) La alloys produced by permanent mold casting and high pressure die casting (HPDC) were investigated. In addition to solute atoms in α-Mg matrix, Al element may exist in the form of three different intermetallic phases in the present alloys depending on the experimental conditions. In both casting states, the increase of La addition results in a rise in the volume fraction of Al11La3 eutectic, and simultaneously Mg17Al12 phase, including divorced eutectic in as-cast state and discontinuous precipitation after creep, is suppressed until completely disappears. This leads to a gradual increase in creep resistance. The formation of more Mg17Al12 phase in HPDC alloys is considered a major factor in causing their worse creep properties by comparison with that of the permanent mold casting alloys when La content is in a lower level below 2 wt.%. By contrast, the HPDC alloys show better creep resistance with La content added above 2 wt.% owing to the formation of denser network distribution of Al11La3 phase along grain/dendrite boundaries as a result of more rapid solidification rate and higher solidification pressure. For the alloys studied, grain/dendrite boundary sliding is suggested to be a possible controlling mechanism responsible for creep deformation at elevated temperatures.