Flow softening behavior during dynamic recrystallization in Mg–3Al–1Zn magnesium alloy

The flow softening behavior of Mg–3Al–1Zn magnesium alloy in the temperature range 325–500 °C is quantified using plane strain compression. The flow softening ratio, defined as the steady-state stress at 0.6 strain to the peak stress, shows a linear relationship with the Zener–Hollomon (Z) parameter and varies from 45 to 70%. Higher levels of flow softening at high Z are associated with fully recrystallized structures, whereas lower flow softening levels at low Z exhibit a mix of large recrystallized and fine non-recrystallized grains.