Microstructure and mechanical properties of ZK60 alloy prepared using spark plasma sintering

ZK60 magnesium alloy was prepared via the spark plasma sintering technique in the temperature range of 350-450 degrees C with an interval of 50 degrees C. The effect of the sintering temperature on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the alloy was investigated. The three sintered alloys contained the alpha-Mg phase and a small fraction of the MgZn2 phase, and exhibited dense microstructures containing equiaxed grains. The alloy sintered at 400 degrees C exhibited the highest relative density among the three alloys, with an average grain size of 5.42 mu m. The yield strength, compressive strength, and fracture strain of the alloy were 130, 270 MPa, and 8%, respectively, corresponding to the most favourable mechanical properties among the three alloys.