Review of development and progress on thixomolding technology of magnesium alloys

In recent years, thixomolding technology has injected new vitality into the large-scale application of magnesium (Mg) alloys in multiple fields of manufacturing, promoting the lightweighting and green manufacturing of structural component products. This article aims to comprehensively summarize the development and progress of Mg alloy thixomolding technology. This paper first reviews the materials including Mg alloys and Mg based composites for thixomolding applications, as well as thixomolding process including process characteristic, influence of process parameters, process defects, process optimization. Subsequently, properties of thixomolded Mg alloys and Mg based composites are discussed in detail. Then, development of thixomolding machine, progress of equipment units, advanced and large-scale thixomolding equipment are discussed. The current industrial application of Mg alloy thixomolding technology and present successful application cases are also summarized. Finally, perspectives on Mg alloy thixomolding technology in terms of developing specialized Mg alloys, technological barriers and breakthroughs, advanced thixomolding equipment, talent cultivation and sustainable development are proposed. Overall, this paper offers an in-depth insight of Mg alloy thixomolding technology, highlighting its potential in manufacturing high-performance and high-quality Mg alloy components for multiple fields.