Abstract
The effects of co-addition of La and Nd on microstructures and mechanical properties of squeeze-cast Mg-Al-Zn-La-Nd alloys were investigated. Six squeeze-cast Mg-Al-Zn-La-Nd alloys with different La/Nd ratios were prepared. Microstructures, Vickers hardness and compression properties (in room temperature and high temperature) were investigated. The results reveal that the La/Nd ratio has a significant influence on the microstructure and mechanical properties. The microstructure, Mg₁₇Al₁₂ area fraction, Vickers hardness and compression properties of alloys with different La/Nd ratios are different. When the La/Nd ratio is 2/3, the alloy has fine grains, less Mg₁₇Al₁₂ phase content, and excellent mechanical properties. The present research indicates that adding dual REs with appropriate La/Nd ratio to Mg-Al-Zn alloy can effectively improve its performance.

Key words
AZ91, rare earth; microstructure, mechanical property, squeeze-cast

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