Discharge properties of Mg-Sn-Y alloys as anodes for Mg-air batteries

Abstract

Mg-Sn-Y alloys with different Sn contents (wt%) were assessed as anode candidates for Mg-air batteries. The relationship between microstructure (including the second phase, grain size, and texture) and discharge properties of the Mg-Sn-Y alloys was examined using microstructure observation, electrochemical measurements, and galvanostatic discharge tests. The Mg-0.7Sn-1.4Y alloy had a high steady discharge voltage of 1.5225 V and a high anodic efficiency of 46.6% at 2.5 mA·cm⁻². These good properties were related to its microstructure: small grain size of 3.8 µm, uniform distribution of small second phase particles of 0.6 µm, and a high content (vol%) of ($11\bar 20$)/($10\bar 10$) orientated grains. The scanning Kelvin probe force microscopy (SKPFM) indicated that the Sn₃Y₅ and MgSnY phases were effective cathodes causing micro-galvanic corrosion which promoted the dissolution of Mg matrix during the discharge process.

Keywords

magnesium-stannum-yttrium alloy / microstructure / micro-galvanic corrosion / discharge properties / magnesium-air battery

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