Key Properties
Light weight
Low density (two thirds that of aluminum)
Good high temperature mechanical properties
Good to excellent corrosion resistance

Magnesium alloy developments have traditionally been driven by aerospace industry requirements for lightweight materials to operate under increasingly demanding conditions. Magnesium alloys have always been attractive to designers due to their low density, only two thirds that of aluminum. This has been a major factor in the widespread use of magnesium alloy castings and wrought products.
A further requirement in recent years has been for superior corrosion performance and dramatic improvements have been demonstrated for new magnesium alloys. Improvements in mechanical properties and corrosion resistance have led to greater interest in magnesium alloys for aerospace and specialty applications.
Key Properties
Light weight
Low density (two thirds that of aluminum)
Good high temperature mechanical properties
Good to excellent corrosion resistance