Effect of trace Zr and V on 3D morphology of Fe-rich phase and mechanical properties in recycled Al-Mg-Si alloy

• Zr addition increases grain size due to the 'Zr poisoning' effect, while V addition has no significant influence on grain size in recycled Al-Mg-Si alloys. • Combined addition of V and Zr transforms Fe-rich phase morphology from coarse Chinese-script shapes to fine short rod and curved long strip structures, enhancing distribution uniformity. • Synergistic V+Zr addition increases the number and volume fraction of small Fe-rich phases (≤15 μm) and reduces branching in the largest Fe-rich phase, leading to improved elongation. • This work provides a theoretical foundation for the design and industrial application of high-performance recycled Al-Mg-Si alloys.