Magnesium Alloys: Fundamentals and Recent Advances

Abstract

Magnesium alloys are finding a relevant role in the materials sectors mainly due to its lightness but also to other properties such as high specific mechanical properties, high castability and an adequate compatibility to the human body. Due to this, Magnesium alloys can be used in different systems that include the transportation section, mainly in the automotive one, the electronics and household appliances, but also in prosthesis that can be absorbed by the human body. In this article, a revision on the general characteristics of Magnesium alloys, as well as to the applications that Magnesium is currently finding is made. Due to the combination of lightness, castability, recyclability and biocompatibility, Magnesium alloys are helping to the reduction of pollution, increase the electronics portability and even helping to solve serious health issues that would require the use of medical implants.