Evaluation of corrosion and wear resistance of friction stir welded ZK60 alloy

Owing to the low corrosion and wear resistance of magnesium alloy, surface properties are the key factors affecting its application. But few studies have concentrated on the surface properties of friction stir welded Mg–Zn–Zr alloy. The aim of the present paper is to investigate the effects of friction stir welding (FSW) and subsequent ageing on the surface corrosion and wear resistance of ZK60 alloy. It is found that due to the significant grain refinement and redistribution of precipitates, the surface corrosion and wear resistance of ZK60 plates are enhanced by FSW. Morphology of inter-granular corrosion in base metal is changed into pitting corrosion after welding. Subsequent ageing can significantly reduce the corrosion resistance of the welded plates.