Study of Functional Behaviour of Cast Magnesium Alloy with Zirconium Addition

Magnesium is the lightest material than aluminium and has a better specific strength, which is utilized for weight management applications. This research developed the magnesium (Mg) matrix with 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, and 0.5 percentages in weight (wt%) of zirconium (Zr) particles (grain refinement agent) via the squeeze cast technique. The argon inert gas is limit oxidation during the melting of Mg. The influence of Zr on the functional properties of Mg is studied and related to monolithic Mg without the Zr phase. The microstructural analysis provides the Zr particles are dispersed uniformly in the Mg matrix and exposed to superior mechanical properties. The Mg processed with 0.5 wt% of Zr offered maximum hardness, ultimate tensile strength, and elongation percentage, which are 53, 48.8, and 43.5 % better than the values of monolithic Mg. Besides, the optimum Mg refining with 0.5 wt% Zr microstructure is detailed with EDS and conforms to the contribution of Zr. This is used for automotive structural (frame) applications.