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.
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