The influence of different contents of rare earth Y on the corrosion resistance of AZ91 alloy was investigated by the salt spray test and electrochemical measurements. It was found that the proper amount of Y was effective on improving the corrosion resistance of AZ91 alloy. The optimal modification effect was obtained when the Y content in the alloys was 0.3 wt.% However, with the increase of rare earth Y, the corrosion rate became bigger slightly, and further addition of Y content over 0.3 wt.% resulted in the increment of the corrosion rate. It is suggested that the excessive rare earth Y can reduce the corrosion resistance of AZ91 alloy. (c) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.