Achieving microstructures prone to superplastic deformation in an Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloy by equal channel angular pressing

► The Al 7075 alloy without Sc and Zr has been processed by overaging and ECAP. ► Continuous recrystallization during heating previous to deformation leads to a microstructure prone to superplasticity. ► Microstructural analysis by EBSD has been performed both in the grip and gauge length of tensile samples. ► GBS mechanism decreases the driving force for grain growth during straining at high temperature.