Evolution of the structure and mechanical properties of the Mg-1%Zn-0.2%Ca alloy during ECAP

Microstructure of the Mg-1%Zn-0.2%Ca magnesium alloy after equal-channel angular pressing (ECAP) has been investigated. It was shown that an increase of the shear strain leads to significant grain refinement, as well as to the improved uniformity of microhardness. As a result of grain refinement by ECAP processing, the microhardness was increased to a value of 45.5, which is 28% higher than the initial state. Tensile tests demonstrated the enhanced ultimate tensile strength of 248.1 MPa, yield stress of 153.2 MPa, ductility of 19.4 % whereas in the initial coarse-grained state these parameters were 124 MPa, 45.3 MPa and 8.7 %, accordingly. (paper)