Design of high performance structural alloys using second phases

Development of high performance structural alloys is not an easy task since the improvement in one property (e.g., strength) often results in the degradation of other properties (e.g., ductility, toughness). One of the ways of overcoming the obstacle is to utilize the beneficial effects of second phases. This paper presents some examples to show how such approach has enabled us to develop structural alloys for specified properties. Examples are drawn from our research programs on high-temperature Mg alloys, and wrought Mg alloys, and bulk amorphous alloys.