Harnessing the power of α-Mg: Unveiling the matrix phase’s role in Mg alloys from structure to function

Mg alloys have garnered significant attention in advanced engineering applications due to their exceptional combination of specific strength and lightweight properties. The α-Mg solid solution, which constitutes the core component of Mg alloys, directly governs the alloy’s thermodynamic behavior, kinetic response, and overall performance. This paper systematically reviews the effects of the α-Mg matrix phase on mechanical properties (e.g., when the average grain size of pure Mg is refined from 59.7 µm to 1.57 µm, the alloy’s yield strength increases by 122 MPa), corrosion resistance (e.g., adding 0.5% Gd and 0.5% Sc to pure Mg reduces the alloy’s weight loss rate from 208.71 mm/year to 0.29 mm/year), damping properties, electromagnetic shielding properties, and flame retardancy, and reveals the microscopic interaction mechanisms between the matrix phase, solute atoms, crystal defects, and second phases. Furthermore, this paper critically analyzes the key role of the matrix phase in emerging fields such as bio-Mg alloys (e.g., controlled degradation rate design), Mg-air batteries (e.g., anode efficiency optimization), and Mg-based hydrogen storage materials (e.g., enhancement of hydrogen absorption/desorption kinetics). Finally, this paper explores the significant potential of data-driven methods in the design and development of next-generation high-performance Mg alloys.