MgCa

MgCa refers to a binary alloy system consisting primarily of magnesium with calcium as the alloying element. It is studied as a lightweight structural material with the potential to improve strength and creep resistance relative to pure magnesium.

In the Mg–Ca system, calcium has limited solubility in magnesium at room temperature, and calcium-containing intermetallic phases form as the composition is varied or as the alloy is heat treated. The typical microstructure comprises a magnesium-rich solid solution matrix with dispersed Ca-containing intermetallic particles.

Production of MgCa alloys is usually accomplished by melting magnesium and calcium under an inert gas or vacuum, adding calcium to the melt, and pouring into molds followed by extrusion or other forming methods. Due to calcium's high reactivity with air and moisture, processing requires protective atmospheres and careful handling to prevent oxidation and hydrogen evolution.

Mechanical properties depend on composition and processing. MgCa alloys can offer higher strength and hardness than commercially pure magnesium, with changes in ductility depending on Ca content and heat treatment. The intermetallic phases influence wear resistance and creep behavior. Corrosion behavior is strongly affected by the Ca-containing phases, which can act as galvanic sites and alter degradation rates in various environments.

Applications remain primarily in research and specialized niche components where weight savings are critical. Ongoing work aims to optimize composition, processing, and corrosion resistance to widen practical use; at present, MgCa alloys are not as widely adopted as some other magnesium alloys.