Influence of {10-12} extension twinning on the flow behavior of AZ31 Mg alloy

Uniaxial compression tests were performed on samples cut along the extrusion direction from AZ31 Mg alloy tubes. A stage of increasing work hardening rate was observed on representative true σ–ɛ curves. Specimens compressed to various strain levels were examined by optical microscopy and electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD) techniques. The results indicate that the widespread formation of intersecting {10-12} extension twins is responsible for the increased strain hardening rate.