Crystalline Alloys: Magnesium

Magnesium is the third most commonly used structural metal (steel is rst and aluminum is second). While the amount of steel and even aluminum used is far greater than that of Mg, Mg alloys are very attractive because of their low density and high strength-to-weight ratios. Mg is 75% lighter than steel and 33% lighter than Al. With today’s emphasis on energy costs, fuel economy, and our environment, Mg is becoming even more attractive because it is readily recycled and its increased use could lead to better fuel eciency for cars/aircra and lighter, more energy-ecient equipment in factories. Other desirable properties of Mg alloys include good castability, high stiness-to-weight ratios, high thermal conductivity, high electrical conductivity, good weldability under controlled atmospheres, and high damping capacity. On the other hand, magnesium has a relatively low melting temperature and.