The γ˝ phase (Mg4GdZn) precipitate in Mg-Gd-Zn alloy was calculated via first-principle density functional theory within the generalized gradient approximation. Through structure optimization of full relaxation, the lattice parameters were theoretically obtained, and the calculated Mg4GdZn is the most energetically stable in view of the formation energy. Independent elastic constants were also calculated, illustrating the calculated Mg4GdZn is mechanically stable. The shear modulus, polycrystalline bulk modulus, Poisson ratio, and Young’s modulus of Mg4GdZn were calculated via the Voigt-Reuss-Hill approximation. Elastic anisotropy and ductility were analyzed in details. Seen from their charge density distribution and electronic density of states, both metallic bond and covalent bond were found in Mg4GdZn.


Mengmeng Wu, Rongkai Pan, Jilei Liang, Guohai Zhou, Li Ma and Chunyu Zhang