AbstractThe methods for producing magnesium are briefly described and its alloying behaviour is discussed with particular reference to the roles of individual alloying elements. Cast and wrought alloys are considered separately and particular attention is paid to microstructure–property relationships and corrosion behaviour. Alloys produced via new processing techniques are treated separately and mention is made of metal matrix composites and the use of rapid solidification to produce amorphous and other novel materials. Finally, current and future trends in the use of magnesium alloys are considered together with examples of recent applications.MST/2023