Abstract: In this study, the effectiveness of three different types of Mg-based blowing agents on the structure and properties of aluminum alloy foam was compared. AlMg15Cu10 alloy foams were produced by the powder metallurgy route using pure Mg, Al50Mg50 and Al60Mg40 powders as blowing agents. Al50Mg50 and Al60Mg40 powders were synthesized by ball milling and melt milling, and were characterized by particle size analysis, XRD and SEM. Foams were characterized by using X-ray tomography, SEM and XRD. Mechanical properties were obtained through quasi-static compression tests. It was observed that the foams produced by Mg possess spherical cells whereas more polyhedral cells were obtained in the foams produced by Al50Mg50 and Al60Mg40. The finest cells were produced by Al60Mg40 powder. Variation in the cell size is attributed to the different hydrogen contents of these blowing agents. All foams resulted in a good porous structure and possess high compressive strength compared with conventional foams. Graphical Abstract: [Figure not available: see fulltext.] © 2020, The Minerals, Metals & Materials Society and ASM International.