Amorphization of MgZn alloys by mechanical alloying

We report for the first time on the synthesis of magnesium-based amorphous alloy powders using mechanical grinding. We synthesize an amorphous powder of the nominal composition Mg 70Zn 30. Using X-ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) we analyse the details of the magnesium reaction as well as the crystallization sequence of the resulting amorphous powder. The crystallization sequence of the mechanically ground powders is contrasted with that of the rapidly quenched ribbon of the same composition. The DSC experimental results are compared with predictions of the Miedema model for the enthalpy of melting of alloys.