Unlocking Enhanced Corrosion Performance in Equal Molar MgTiZn Alloy: Synthesis and Characterization

Monday, September 30, 2024: 2:00 PM
21 (Huntington Convention Center)
Mr. Alexander T Helmer , NC State University, Raleigh, NC
This presentation introduces a pioneering approach in the synthesis of a unique equal molarity MgTiZn alloy utilizing ball milling. Ball milling, a non-equilibrium alloy synthesis process, enhances the solid solubility of elements in alloy systems, facilitating the creation of novel alloys through mechanical milling. Our research addresses the pressing need for lightweight materials, particularly in diverse industrial sectors. We have successfully engineered a distinctive alloy structure that surpasses the performance of current commercially available Mg alloys, exhibiting significantly reduced corrosion rates and hydrogen evolution rates. The ball-milled powder underwent post-processing through direct current sintering, resulting in a dense structure with exceptional hardness characteristics. Our investigation involved a comprehensive analysis, including potentiodynamic polarization, immersion testing, X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The findings underscore the exceptional properties and performance enhancements achieved through this innovative alloy synthesis methodology. This study not only expands our understanding of alloy development but also offers promising avenues for understanding the magnesium system and unlocking better corrosion performance and functionality across various applications.