Developments in Magnesium Alloys for Transport Applications – An Overview

Abstract

Magnesium, being a lightweight and having high specific strength and modulus is an attractive structural material for automobile manufacture to replace steel, cast iron and even aluminium- based alloys in many components to make the transport vehicle lighter. The need of fuel economy and demand for reduced levels of emissions stipulates the need to reduce the weight of automotive components. This paper gives the overview of the advantages, limitations and applications of Mg alloys in the automotive industry. The current status on research and development of magnesium alloys and recycling of Mg alloys are summarised.