The effect of 2 mass% rare earth elements (RE) as in mischmetal state on the structure, thermal behaviour and mechanical properties of Mg–xLi–4Al (x = 4, 8 and 12 by mass percentage). The thermo-derivative analysis was implemented using the UMSA platform (Universal Metallurgical Simulator and Analyzer) with cooling rate approx. ≈ 0.6 °C s⁻¹ that correspond to natural cooling. Microstructural evaluations were identified by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, light microscope and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Obtained results from the thermal derivative analysis allowed determining the solidification pathways for Mg–Li–Al–RE alloy. The addition of grain refinement causes changes in crystallisation process. The addition of RE elements affected an enhancement in mechanical properties, which was associated with the development of intermetallic compounds; the maximum increases in hardness at level 240% was observed for single α-phase alloy and at level 19% for α + β alloy.

The purpose of this paper is to show the effect of tool materials surface treatment while using laser texturing on the structure and properties of cemented carbides and sialon ceramics. The tests were made on multi-point inserts subjected laser texturization and honeycomb-like texture was obtained. Comprehensive investigations in the scanning electron microscope (SEM) were made. Morphology was examined by the use of atomic forces microscope (AFM) and confocal microscope. The chemical composition of the tested materials using energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometer (EDS) was investigated. Moreover, exploitative properties, including wear resistance using the "pin on disc" method and roughness, were also tested. It was found that the laser texturing provides a suitable modification of the structure improving tribological properties. Tests suggest that laser texturing can contribute to the durability of cutting tool’s edge, which qualifies this type of surface treatment for wide industrial applications.