One of the most important characteristics of Mg alloys is the high ratio of strength to weight. This is why there is a high demand for applications with these alloys in the transportation industries to reduce the fuel consumption and to save energy. In addition, magnesium (and its alloys) is of considerable interest as a structural material, especially in the aerospace and automotive industries thanks to its low density. However, its major drawback is its high sensitivity to corrosion. Therefore, its use requires the application of a surface treatment. This study used a die-casted AZ91D Mg alloyand all the samples were annealed (in 120˚C). The surface microstructure and phase distribution in thin-walled AZ91D magnesium components cast on a hot-chamber die-casting machine were investigated by optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The reflectance differences in the bulk state comparison with the annealing state are caused by hydrogenation presence of the Mg layer under an oxidation surface layer.

• Han, Byung-Kuk(Department of Oriental Biomedical Engineering, Daegu Haany University)