The effect of double extrusion on the microstructure and mechanical properties of AZ80RE alloy

The Mg-8.10Al-0.42Zn-0.51Mn-1.52La-1.10Gd (wt%, AZ80RE alloy, RE = rare earth) alloy was subjected to double extrusion, and the influence of the double extrusion on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the extruded alloy was investigated. The secondary extrusion process could strongly refine the recrystallized grains and disperse the fine RE-containing phases. The ductility of the AZ80RE alloy was also promoted, due to the grain refinement and the basal texture weakening. The elongation was significantly prolonged from the initial 13.3% to 28.5% after secondary extrusion. The basal texture weakening slightly deteriorated the yield stress of the AZ80RE alloy. The yield stress was declined from 218 MPa to about 172 MPa after secondary extrusion. Furthermore, lower extruding temperature was beneficial for finer grains and better ductility.