Abstract:Effects of Li addition (2%, 5%, 8% and 11%) on microstructure and mechanical properties of the as-cast and as-extruded Mg-6Al-2Sn-0.4Mn-based alloys were investigated. Mg-xLi-6Al-2Sn-0.4Mn (x= 2, 5, 8 and 11, mass fraction, %) alloys were cast under an SF₆ and CO₂ atmosphere at 700°C. After homogenization heattreatment at 350 °C, cast billets were extruded with a reduction ratio of 40:1 at 200°C. Li addition to Mg-6Al-2Sn-0.4Mn resulted in the formation of MgSnLi₂ and MgAlLi₂ and/or AlLi intermetallic compounds and random basal texture. With increasing Li addition, β-Li phase was increased and the average area fraction of precipitates increased. Compression yield strength was increased from 212 to 235, 242 and 239 MPa as Li content was increased from 2% to 5%, 8% and 11%, respectively. Elongation was remarkably increased above 60% in 11%Li alloy. It is probable that Li-containing phases play a significant role in the enhanced mechanical properties by Li addition.

Key words: magnesium alloy; Li addition; extrusion; microstructure; mechanical property