Effect of Extrusion Processing Parameters on Microstructure of Mg-Zr Alloys

The micro-alloying effect, mechanical properties, and plastic deformation behavior of extruded Mg-Zr alloy were investigated and characterized as a function of Zr addition, grain size, and texture. The experimental methodology used in this study was design to exploit the hot-extrusion processing parameters (in the terms of extrusion ratios and temperature) and its effect on Mg extruded alloys microstructure, texture, and mechanical properties. Microstructural observations revealed significant grain refinement through a combination of Zr addition and hot-extrusion, producing fine equiaxed grain structure with grain sizes ranging between 1–5 μm. Texture analysis and partial compression testing results showed that the initial texture of the extruded alloy gradually evolved upon compressive loading along the c-axes inducing contraction twinning creating a strong basal texture along the extrusion direction. Full tensile and compression test at room temperature showed that the combination of hot-extrusion and Zr addition can further refine the grains of the Mg alloys microstructure and enhance the texture while simultaneously enhancing the mechanical properties.