Effect of extrusion ratio on microstructure and mechanical properties of Mg–Nd–Zn–Zr alloys prepared by a solid recycling process

Microstructures and room temperature mechanical properties of Mg–2.4Nd–0.6Zn–0.6Zr alloys prepared by a solid recycling process with different extrusion ratios were studied. The tensile properties of the materials were evaluated for the magnesium alloys in as-extruded and extruded-T6 conditions. With increasing extrusion ratio, the tensile strength and elongation to failure increases. The heat treatment results in a significant increase in tensile yield strength and ultimate tensile strength because of dispersive particles or fine precipitates. Moreover, the ductility decreases from as-extruded condition to extruded-T6 condition. The morphology of the fracture surfaces was examined by employing scanning electron microscope. The fracture mode is a mix mechanism with brittle fracture and gliding fracture.