Twin-like domains and fracture in deformed magnesium

Twin-like domains were observed in deformed magnesium by using electron backscatter diffraction. These domains do not satisfy any of the known twin orientation relationships, but have a high misorientation angle of similar to 57 degrees and a rotation axis of < 1 0 (1) over bar 0 >. Fracture occurred primarily in these domains. {1 0 (1) over bar 2}< 1 0 (1) over bar (1) over bar > twins were observed at the domain/matrix interfaces, and these twins may relax local stress and retard crack propagation. Trace analysis shows that the domains are likely on {1 0 (1) over bar 1} planes. Interaction between the domains may lead to crack nucleation. (C) 2013 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.