Effect of ECAP on microstructure and mechanical properties of ZE41 magnesium alloy

A ZE41 alloy was processed by equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) at 320 °C and its microstructure and tensile properties were evaluated. It has been observed that the ECAP refines both the grains and precipitates, thus modifying the strength and ductility of the alloy. The sample after 6 passes of ECAP processing has a yield stress of 230 MPa and elongation of 20%, compared with 160 MPa and 8% prior to the ECAP. Two types of twinning, viz. { 1   0   1 ¯   2 } and { 1   0   1 ¯   1 } , were observed.