Strengthening and toughening mechanisms in Mg–Zn–Y alloy with a long period stacking ordered structure

The deformation behavior and corresponding microstructure evolution of a Mg97Zn1Y2 (at.%) alloy with a long period stacking ordered (LPSO) structure subjected to hot compression were investigated. The peak stress at 573 K was about 190 MPa, and no macroscopic fracture took place up to a strain of about 60%. The mechanisms responsible for the mechanical performance of the Mg97Zn1Y2 (at.%) alloy are discussed based on microstructural investigations using various electron microscopy techniques. The high strength at elevated temperature could be attributed to synergetic strengthening refinement of the LPSO via kinking and a limited fraction of dynamical recrystallization. Microcracks nucleated at the interfaces in the sandwich structure composed of LPSO and nanometer thick Mg slices could weaken the alloy at late stages of deformation, but their propagation could be limited within the individual kink band where the microcracks nucleated, which could ensure the capability of the alloy to resist premature or catastrophic fracture. Furthermore, lack of deformation twins in Mg grains effectively reduced the potential nucleation sites for cracks, which should be another reason for the good ductility of the alloy. These findings may provide or evoke insights into methods for optimizing the mechanical properties of Mg alloys.