Magnesium and Its Alloys in Automotive Applications - A Review

Magnesium is very attractive material as it has the combination of good strength, low weight and good quality. The usage of magnesium and its alloys has considerably increased over the past ten years. In structural applications, where weight plays a major role, magnesium is a good choice. Its recyclability property also gives an edge. The use of magnesium and its alloys in automotive components was limited in the early sixties and seventies but today the awareness on fuel savings and environmental protection through reduced CO2 emissions makes this material attractive. This paper reviews the benefits due to Mg, its alloy materials, manufacturing methods and applications in automotive sector. It also summarizes directions for the development of new magnesium alloys based on properties.