Microstructure is one of the vital factors that determine the mechanical properties of magnesium (Mg) alloys. However, traditional microstructure characterization methods hardly satisfy the needs of tracking the morphological evolution of Mg alloys. With the rapid development of computer simulation, using the phase-field method to simulate the evolution of microstructures in Mg alloys has become the new norm. This article provides a review of the applications of the phase-field method in Mg alloys. First, classic phase-field models and the derived multi-phase and polycrystalline phase-field models are reviewed, then a review of the twin and solid-state phase transition phase-field models was undertaken, and the research progress of phase-field simulation in the solidification, recrystallization, and solid-state phase transformation of Mg alloys, were gradually introduced. In addition, unresolved problems of phase-field simulation were summarized, and the possible direction of future studies on phase-field simulation in Mg alloys field were discussed.

A cross-scale model of macro-micro coupling is established for the wire laser additive manufacturing process of the TC4 titanium alloy. The model reproduces the dynamic evolution process of the molten pool shape, reveals the temperature change law in the molten pool, and simulates the microstructure and morphology of different regions of the molten pool. Finally, the model is used to quantitatively analyze the effects of process parameters (laser power, scanning speed) on the growth morphology of dendrites during solidification. The research shows that with the increase in laser power and the decrease in scanning speed, the peak temperature of the molten pool increases rapidly, and the size of the molten pool increases gradually. When the laser scanning speed is greater than 5 mm/s, the molten pool length decreases significantly. After solidification, an asymmetrically distributed equiaxed grain structure is formed at the upper part of the molten pool, the bottom of the molten pool is made up of slender columnar crystals, and the columnar-to-equiaxed transition (CET) occurs in the middle of the molten pool. With the decrease in laser power and the increase in scanning speed, the growth rate of dendrites becomes faster, the arm spacing and the overall morphology of dendrites become smaller, and the arrangement of columnar crystals have a tighter microstructure.

The synchrotron radiation technology is a powerful tool for characterisation of the microstructure of alloys because of its strong penetration, high resolution and non-destructiveness. Mg alloys are widely used in engineering due to their low density, high ratio strength and good casting properties. The application of synchrotron radiation techniques in characterising the microstructure in various Mg alloys has made incremental progress. The present review introduces the basic principles of synchrotron radiation techniques, and summarises recent advances in the application of these techniques in understanding the solidification microstructure, deformation behaviour, phase transformation mechanism, hydrogen storage capacity, long-period stacking ordered structure of Mg alloys. The perspective on the development and further application of synchrotron radiation technology for alloy research is also discussed.