The early stage oxidation and evaporation of Mg-9%Al-1%Zn alloy

Thermogravimetric technique was used to determine the oxidation and evaporation behaviour of AZ91D magnesium alloys with 5 and 10 ppm of beryllium at temperatures between 200 and 500 degreesC. Depending on temperature and time, the alloy experienced protective or non-protective oxidation with linear or accelerated oxide growth kinetics. During reaction in an oxidizing atmosphere, the additions of beryllium delayed the transient from the protective to non-protective scale formation. In an inert atmosphere, increased beryllium contents reduced the magnesium evaporation rate. (C) 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.