June 15–18, 2021

Virtual Event

Technical Program

The 12th International Conference on Magnesium Alloys and Their Applications (Mg 2021) will cover the full breadth of magnesium research and development, from primary production to applications to end-of-life management, including the following topics:

• Primary Production
• Alloy Development
• Solidification and Casting Processes
• Forming and Thermo-mechanical Processing
• Other Manufacturing Process Development (Including Joining and Additive Manufacturing)
• Corrosion and Protection
• Modeling and Simulation
• Structural, Functional, Biomedical, and Energy Applications
• Advanced Characterization and Fundamental Theories
• Recycling and Environmental Issues
• Other

Topics will also include magnesium-based compounds and composites.

Details of the technical program are available to view in ProgramMaster's Session Sheets. In preparation for the conference, you may find it helpful to review Frequently Asked Questions and visit the Attendee Toolbox for some tips and tools before the event begins.

Plenary Speakers

John Allison, University of Michigan, USA
Presentation Title: "Accelerating Predictive Understanding of Microstructural Evolution and Mechanical Behavior of Magnesium Alloys"

Abstract

Abstract
The Center for PRedictive Integrated Structural Materials Science (PRISMS) is creating and disseminating a unique open-source capability for accelerating the scientific understanding of magnesium alloys. A central component of this framework is a suite of high performance, open-source multi-scale computational tools for predicting microstructural evolution and mechanical behavior. These are used in conjunction with advanced experiments in integrated scientific “Use Cases” focused on topics such as predicting the evolution of precipitates in Mg-rare earth alloys, their subsequent influence on mechanical behavior and quantification of alloying effects on the evolution of deformation twins during monotonic and cyclic loading. A third thrust is providing this information to the community via an information repository called the Materials Commons. This talk will review the Center’s progress and plans.

Irene Beyerlein, University of California Santa Barbara, USA
Presentation Title: "Effects of Interfaces on Deformation Twinning Behavior at the Mesoscale"

Abstract

Abstract
There are a wide range of structural applications that desire advanced materials with high strength-to-weight ratios in combination with other outstanding mechanical properties. Mg alloys offer a potential solution, but successful incorporation of Mg alloys into engineering designs is, however, hindered by their limited plasticity. One of the important and puzzling underlying mechanisms governing their plastic behavior is deformation twinning, which form in these materials under straining. The development of twins both inside the crystal and at crystalline interfaces has mostly been addressed at the atomistic scale level. In our research, we employ crystal plasticity-based micromechanics model to establish and understand the effects of material interfaces, whether they arise from free surfaces, grain boundaries, phase boundaries, or precipitates, on the expansion of twin embryos, twin-tip propagation and twin boundary migration. In this talk, recent results from a number of modeling and experimental studies will be presented and discussed.

Nick Birbilis, Australian National University, Australia
Presentation Title: "Breaking Expectations in Magnesium Alloys"

Abstract

Abstract
Magnesium (Mg) alloys are remarkable materials, with several extremes in their properties (not always favourable). The opportunities from the low density of Mg are yet to be fully realised (in spite of increased year on year usage). Some of the challenges to Mg-alloy development have been economic and geopolitical, others from competitor action – with the rate of Mg-alloy development not as significant as that of other alloy systems. Recent years have seen unique step changes in the understanding of Mg-alloy behaviour - particularly in ductility and corrosion performance. Enhanced understanding, facilitates design opportunities, and the advent of more ductile magnesium, and corrosion-resistant Mg-alloys is emerging. Examples covering development of not-so-novel Mg-alloys, with very novel properties, are presented. Concepts are extended to Mg-alloys for use in batteries and as functional materials (highlighting how versatile Mg-alloys are).

Hamid Jahed, University of Waterloo, Canada
Presentation Title: "Magnesium Structural Application: A Case Study"

Abstract

Abstract
Attractive specific strength and fatigue properties, excellent machinability, and good dimensional tolerances in casting and forging of magnesium captured the attention of automotive companies as a potential candidate for weight reduction. Lots of progress was made during past two decades in weight saving from 10% to 70% per part when original steel and/or aluminum parts were replaced with magnesium. Strong basal texture of wrought magnesium alloys limits active slip systems at room temperature. Activation of prismatic and pyramidal slip systems at temperatures above 225C, however, enables forming. Leveraging the hot temperature forming and fatigue properties, magnesium suspension parts manufactured through forging became the focus of a large-scale research and development project led by the University of Waterloo in collaboration with Multimatic, Canmet, Ford, and Centreline. The successful design, manufacturing, and testing of front lower arm suspension of a car with 37% weight saving is presented in this plenary talk.

Yoshihito Kawamura, Kumamoto University, Japan
Presentation Title: "Research and Development Trends in LPSO Magnesium Alloys for Structural and Biomedical Applications"

Abstract

Abstract
LPSO magnesium alloys with a duplex structure of alpha-Mg and LPSO phases exhibit a remarkable balance of properties of high strength, heat resistance, flame resistance and reasonable corrosion resistance. Their manufacturing technology and applications are becoming more robust in Japan. Recently, we've succeeded in developing incombustible LPSO Mg-Zn-Y alloys. The ignition temperature was improved from 1,150 K to 1,300 K. The LPSO Mg-Zn-Y alloys, produced by an RS P/M processing with optimized manufacturing conditions, have excellent fracture toughness, with 20 MPa m1/2 or higher in fracture toughness KIc and >400 MPa in yield strength σy. We are now developing manufacturing technology of RS P/M LPSO Mg-Zn-Y alloys with excellent fracture toughness for aerospace application. Moreover, fine-gauge wires with 30 μm in diameter have been fabricated by drawing the RS/PM LPSO Mg-Zn-Y alloys. We are currently using these fine-gauge wires to design and develop bioabsorbable medical devices.

Michele Manuel, University of Florida, USA
Presentation Title: "Processing Magnesium Metal Matrix Composites Using Electromagnetic Acoustic Transduction"

Abstract

Abstract
A grand challenge of metal matrix nanocomposites (MMNCs) lies in processing. Magnesium and its inherently reactive properties has virtually eliminated the ability to use conventional techniques such as powder metallurgy. A novel technology has been developed called Electromagnetic Acoustic Transduction (EMAT) to process bulk Mg-MMNCs. EMAT transforms electromagnetic energy into high intensity sonication to induce acoustic cavitation, with the goal of disrupting particle agglomeration. This plenary will explore the landscape of metal matrix nanocomposite fabrication techniques while introducing the EMAT technology and its inherent advantages. Furthermore, the physics of acoustic production and its connection to the resultant microstructure will be explained in the context of potential material property improvements.

Fusheng Pan, Chongqing University, China
Presentation Title: "Development and Applications of High Plasticity Magnesium Alloys"

Abstract

Abstract
It is well known that magnesium has a typical close packed hexagonal structure with few movable slip systems. Compared with aluminum alloys and steels, low plasticity and poor formability of magnesium alloys seriously restricts their wide application. How to improve the plasticity without damaging strength or vice versa has become a research hotspot and focus for development of new types of magnesium alloys in the world. In the past decade, Chongqing University and other units have done a lot of work in the development of high plasticity magnesium alloy and proposed an alloy design theory of "solid solution strengthening and plasticizing (SSSD)." It is found that the solid solution of some specific atoms in magnesium can not only improve the strength by hindering the slip of basal plane dislocation but also improve the plasticity by narrowing the slip resistance gap between the basal plane and the non-basal plane and thus promote the activation of non-basal slip. As a result, both strength and plasticity of the magnesium alloy are improved simultaneously. The development of SSSD theory provided a new way to balance and optimize the strength and plasticity of magnesium alloys in the past ten years. Based on this theory, Chongqing University has developed a variety of new high plasticity magnesium alloys, of which more than 10 alloys have been listed in the National Standard or International Standard. The elongation of ultra-high plasticity magnesium alloy can reach to over 65%, and the elongation of ultra-high strength wrought magnesium alloy with σ b > 500MPa can reach to more than 10%.

Maria Teresa Perez-Prado, IMDEA Materials Institute, Spain
Presentation Title: "Dislocation-particle Interactions in Magnesium Alloys"

Abstract

Abstract
Precipitation constitutes a microstructural design tool that has been utilized successfully to strengthen metals such as, for example, aluminum alloys and nickel superalloys. However, particle hardening has proven significantly less effective in magnesium, thus severely limiting the possibilities for structural alloy design. Exploiting the hardening potential of precipitates in magnesium alloys requires a profound understanding of the interaction between dislocations and precipitates. Basal dislocations are usually the main strain carriers, although non-basal slip systems may also become active and play a key role. The relative contribution of each mechanism depends on testing conditions, composition, microstructure and texture. This lecture will review recent research on dislocation-particle interactions in magnesium alloys using a combined approach including micromechanical testing, slip trace analysis, and high resolution transmission electron microscopy. The interaction of basal and non basal dislocations with particles of different sizes and orientations with respect to the matrix will be discussed.

Anil Sachdev, General Motors Company, USA
Presentation Title: "Advances in Magnesium Alloys for Automotive Applications"

Abstract

Abstract
Abstract: Innovations in the aluminum and steel industries are providing significant challenges to widespread application of magnesium components in automotive applications. Key barriers are mechanical properties including strength and ductility and corrosion mitigation. Alloying with rare earth elements can improve mechanical properties but adds cost. This talk will demonstrate how multi-scale computational methods, including a recently funded program by the Department of Energy, are addressing the challenge of reducing cost and improving properties to make magnesium alloys competitive for high volume applications in the automotive industry. The talk will address the needs and challenges and provide examples of alloy development for sheet, castings and extrusions. A key driver is the need to reduce or eliminate the dependency on expensive rare-earth alloying additions without compromising properties. The discussion on sheet material will additionally include the need for warm stamping and judicious choice of lubrication, corrosion coatings, and joining techniques for large vehicle body components. Finally, the talk will touch upon advanced materials models and their validation to predict material composition and processing conditions for optimum use of magnesium for specific applications.

Kwang Seon Shin, Seoul National University, Korea
Presentation Title: "Development of High Performance Magnesium Alloys"

Abstract

Abstract
The global market for magnesium alloys has steadily expanded in the past decade, stimulated by the strong demand for lightweight components from the automobile and electronic industries. It is important to develop new advanced magnesium alloys with enhanced formability, high strength, and improved corrosion resistance to expand the application of Mg alloys. Mg sheet formability is an important requirement for enclosure applications such as car doors, hoods, and decklids, and necessitates further improvement. In addition, the corrosion resistance of Mg alloys should be improved while maintaining high strength for automobile and bioimplant applications. This study examines various approaches for increasing the formability of Mg sheets and develops magnesium alloys with high corrosion resistance and strength using severe plastic deformation (SPD) processes such as multi-directional forging (MDF) and screw rolling (SR).

Jonathan Weiler, Meridian Lightweight, Canada
Presentation Title: "Contemporary Magnesium Die-casting Research and Technology: A Canadian Viewpoint"

Abstract

Abstract
For the last 20 years, Canada has been a world leader in magnesium die-casting research and development. The breadth of research faculty and facilities, presence of a strong industrial sector, and the participation of government funded programs and agencies have fueled significant developments. This paper provides an overview of the developments led by Canadian researchers in the field of magnesium die-casting in alloy development, property and microstructural characterization, development of ICME models, joining and corrosion technologies, and automotive product development with focus on developments funded by large-scale government funded research programs.

Michael Worswick, University of Waterloo, Canada
Presentation Title: "Characterization and Continuum Modeling of a Rare-earth Magnesium Alloy Leading to Full-scale Auto Parts"

Abstract

Abstract
This presentation provides an overview of material characterization and model development studies performed on a texture-modified rare earth magnesium alloy sheet (ZEK100). Wrought magnesium alloys are attractive for automotive industry applications due to their low density and high specific strength. However, commercial magnesium alloys, such as AZ31B sheet usually have poor formability at room temperature due to limited activity of slip systems. Additionally, due to the twinning deformation mechanism activated in specific loading directions, magnesium alloys exhibit an asymmetric stress-strain response in uniaxial tension and compression tests. The formability of magnesium alloys can be improved by deforming at elevated temperatures; however, warm forming of AZ31B requires a more complex heated tooling setup which increases the cost of the forming operation. Alternatively, the formability can be improved by the addition of rare-earth elements such as Ce, Nd, Y and Gd, for example, which have been shown to weaken the basal texture. Constitutive, formability and fracture characterization of both AZ31B and ZEK100 sheet is presented, considering both room and elevated temperature conditions over a wide range of strain rate. The mechanical behavior can be related back to the initial crystallographic texture in light of known deformation mechanisms operating at different orientations and strain rates. Extensive tensile and compressive constitutive characterization experiments were performed on both alloys, including characterization of anisotropy with strain and material strain rate- and temperature-sensitivity. Forming limit characterization was also performed at elevated temperatures using in situ digital image correlation (DIC) strain measurement. The ZEK100 alloy exhibits significantly higher formability at temperatures below 250°C, whereas the two alloys have similar formability in the 250-300°C range. Yield criteria capturing the evolving anisotropy and asymmetry of magnesium sheet alloys are proposed to model the complex behavior of magnesium alloys at room and elevated temperatures. At room temperature, the material behavior of both alloys is highly anisotropic and asymmetric; however, the degree of asymmetry and anisotropy is diminished at elevated temperature. The proposed material model is validated against several laboratory-scale experiments: 3-point bending, limiting dome height (LDH) and limiting draw ratio (LDR) experiments. Full-scale forming trials are performed considering prototype door inner and roof outer tooling. AZ31B and ZEK100 blanks were formed with initial elevated temperatures, but with room temperature tooling. The AZ31B blanks failed during forming whereas the ZEK100 blanks were successfully drawn for temperatures above 250°C. Recent constitutive models suitable for warm forming conditions using commercial forming software (Autoform) and are shown to provide predictions in accord with the forming trials.

Invited Speakers

Matthew Barnett, Deakin University, Australia

Joshua Caris, Terves Inc., USA

Mert Celikin, University College Dublin, Ireland

William Curtin, Epfl Sti Igm Lammm, Switzerland

Daria Drozdenko, Charles University, Czech Republic

Mark Easton, RMIT University, Australia

Gang Fang, Tsinghua University, China

Joel Fournier, Alliance Magnesium, Canada

Christoph Gourlay, Imperial College London, United Kingdom

Tomonari Inamura, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Japan

Shouxun Ji, Brunel University, United Kingdom

Li Jin, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, China

Vineet Joshi, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, United States

In-ho Jung, Seoul National University, South Korea

David Klaumünzer, Volkswagen AG, Germany

Bin Li, University of Nevada, United States

Petra Maier, University of Applied Sciences Stralsund, Germany

Victoria Miller, University of Florida, United States

Aeriel Murphy-Leonard, Ohio State University, United States

Isao Nakatsugawa, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology, Japan

Jian-Feng Nie, Monash University, Australia

Xiaodong Peng, Chongqing University, China

Warren Poole, University of British Columbia, Canada

Adam Powell, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, United States

Taisuke Sasaki, National Institute for Materials Science, Japan

John Scully, University of Virginia, United States

David St. John, University of Queensland, Australia

Ashley Stone, MAXImolding! Technology Germany, Germany

Bong Sun You, Korea Institute of Materials Science, South Korea

Leyun Wang, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, China

Scott Whalen, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, United States

Mikhail Zheludkevich, Helmholtz Zentrum Geesthacht, Germany

Mingyi Zheng, Harbin Institute of Technology, China

Abstract Submissions

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