The Effect of Sintering Parameters on the Microstructure and Properties of Mg-6% Al Alloy in Spark Plasma Sintering

In this study, the effect of sintering parameters such as sintering temperature, pressure, and degassing treatment on the microstructural evolution and properties of a Mg-6%Al alloy consolidated by spark plasma sintering (SPS) was investigated. Experimental results revealed that degassing treatment prior to sintering was a critical step in the spark plasma sintering process. We concluded that the impurity concentration on the surface of the sintered material was remarkably reduced by degassing treatment and consequently bonding strength among particles was enhanced. A magnesium alloy of high ductility and strength was obtained when a sintering temperature and pressure of 0.82 Tm and 130 MPa, respectively, was employed combined with degassing treatment. †(Received January 11, 2013)