Metallurgical evaluation of AZ31B-H24 magnesium alloy friction stir welds

Friction Stir welding of 3.175 mm (0.125 in.) thick plates of AZ31-H24 magnesium alloy was performed using several travel velocities and tool-rotation speeds. After production the welds were cross-sectioned and a metallurgical characterization was performed using optical microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. Assessment of the weld nugget or "stirred zone" shows evidence of dynamic recrystallization and the start of grain growth in some spots of this region compared to the parent metal. Recrystallization was identified in the thermomechanically affected zone (TAZ) as well. The mechanical properties of the weld are correlated with the corresponding microstructures present in the weld nugget and TMAZ. Corrosion resistance of the weld was assessed using Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) techniques and immersion tests in a corrosive environment; it showed better corrosion resistance than the base metal.