Yield symmetry and reduced strength differential in Mg-2.5Y alloy

In this study we report novel results obtained with an extruded fine-grained Mg-2.5 at.% Y alloy (FG Mg-2.5Y) exhibiting tension/compression yield symmetry and reduced strength differential, in addition to well-balanced strength and ductility. On the basis of detailed post-mortem transmission electron microscopy studies, atom probe tomography, and electron back-scattered diffraction (EBSD) characterization, we propose that the presence of a supersaturated solid solution strengthening for basal slip, and the enhanced activity of prismatic slip are the major causes for the unusual mechanical behavior. (C) 2016 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.