Strengthening‐toughening methods and mechanisms of Mg–Li alloy: a review

Abstract Magnesium–lithium (Mg–Li) alloy, as the lightest metal structure material, has unparalleled market prospects in aerospace, weapons and equipment, electronic technology, transportation, and many other fields. However, it is hard to balance the superlight and high strength of Mg–Li alloy, and the inferior high‐temperature strength and poor high‐temperature stability limit the wide application of Mg–Li alloy. At present, the main methods to improve the mechanical properties of Mg–Li alloy are alloying, grain refinement, and compound strengthening. The domestic and overseas research progress in the strengthening and toughening methods and mechanisms of Mg–Li alloy are reviewed, and the future development of the high strength and high toughness Mg–Li alloy is prospected.