Enhancing mechanical properties of an Mg-Zn-Ca alloy via extrusion

The mechanical properties of an Mg-Zn-Ca alloy were significantly improved through extrusion deformation. High-density spheroidal Ca2Mg6Zn3 with a diameter ranging from 10 to 50 nm dynamically precipitated during extrusion deformation. The microstructure of the as-extruded alloy was obviously refined compared with that of the as-cast counterpart. A bimodal microstructure consisting of coarsely deformed grains and finely recrystallised grains was obtained through extrusion. Additionally, the as-extruded alloy exhibited a strong basal texture. Consequently, the yield strength increased from 42 MPa of the as-cast alloy to 285 MPa of the as-extruded alloy.

Automated summary

Extrusion deformation significantly improved the mechanical properties of an Mg-Zn-Ca alloy, leading to a refined microstructure and a bimodal microstructure. The yield strength of the alloy increased from 42 MPa in the as-cast state to 285 MPa in the as-extruded state.