Microstructure and mechanical properties of annealed Mg-0.6Â wt%Zr sheets by unidirectional and cross rolling

The microstructure and mechanical properties of annealed Mg-0.6 wt%Zr sheets processed by unidirectional and cross rolling were investigated. Compared with the unidirectional rolling sheet, the cross rolling sheet showed a more uniform microstructure, larger grain size and weaker texture intensity. Meanwhile, the cross rolling sheet displayed lower yield strength, ultimate tensile strength and higher elongation. Both sheets exhibited strong mechanical property anisotropy and the stronger anisotropic mechanical properties were showed for unidirectional rolling sheet. The yield strength and ultimate tensile strength of both sheets along the rolling direction were lowest and those along transverse direction were highest. In addition, the highest elongation was found along 45° direction for two sheets. Taking into account of {0001} 〈11−20〉 plastic deformation mechanism, the yield strength anisotropy for both sheets could be explained by the microscopic crystal plasticity theory.