Contributions of different strengthening mechanisms to the shear strength of an extruded Mg-4Zn-0.5Ca alloy

Abstract

The shear deformation behaviour of an extruded Mg-4Zn-0.5Ca alloy was studied using shear punch testing at room temperature. The extrusion process effectively refined the microstructure, leading to a grain size of 4.6 +/- 1.4m. Contributions of different strengthening mechanisms to the room temperature shear yield stress, and overall flow stress of the material, were calculated. These mechanisms include dislocation strengthening, grain boundary strengthening, solid solution hardening and strengthening resulting from second-phase particles. Grain boundary strengthening and solid solution hardening made significant contributions to the overall strength of the material, while the contributions of second-phase particles and dislocations were trivial. The observed differences between calculated and experimental strength values were discussed based on the textural softening of the material.