Effects of TiC particle on the as-cast microstructure

mechanical properties and solidification behavior of ZA84 magnesium alloy（Mg-8Zn-4Al-0.25Mn）have been investigated.The results indicate that 0.5%TiC particle addition can refine the microstructure in the alloy

and convert thd ternary phase in the microstructure from the coarse quasi-continuous net into fine discontinuous net with more dispersive distribution

however

it cannot result in the formation of new phase in the alloy.Inaddition

the 0.5%TiC particle addition can improve the mechanical properties

creep resistance and castability of the magnesium alloy

in which the improvement of castability is possible attributed to the adjustment of solidified temperature range with TiC addition.