Enhanced mechanical properties in fine-grained Mg–1.0Zn–0.5Ca alloys prepared by extrusion at different temperatures

The microstructure and mechanical properties of extruded Mg–1.0Zn–0.5Ca alloys were studied. Observation of the microstructure indicates that the addition of Ca tends to weaken the extrusion texture. The results of tensile tests show that the alloy extruded at 643 K exhibits remarkable elongation of 44% allied with strength of 215 MPa. Moreover, the strength of the alloy extruded at 583 K is increased to 300 MPa. These superior properties can be attributed to grain refinement and the unique extrusion texture.