Microstructures in the 6060 aluminium alloy after various severe plastic deformation treatments

► SPD results in a significant increase in the density of the small primary particles. ► SPD homogenizes the particle size distribution. ► HE and ECAE processes bring nano-grains in the vicinity of the primary particles. ► HE and ECAE processing results in the β” precipitates partial dissolutions. ► During HE and ECAE processes the β” particles change their shape.