Microstructure and mechanical properties of LA51 and LA51–0.5Y alloys with different accumulated strains and rolling temperatures

• The effect of Y on the strength of as-rolled alloys is more pronounced than as-cast alloy, since straining causes the refinement of Al2Y particles and grains.
• Higher rolling temperature activates non-basal slip systems.
• The combination of high strain and rolling temperature induces dynamic recrystallization.

Mg–5Li–1Al (LA51) and Mg–5Li–1Al–0.5Y (LA51–0.5Y) alloys were smelted and rolled with different accumulated strains (36% and 68%) and rolling temperatures (373 K and 573 K). The microstructure, mechanical properties, fracture morphology and texture of the specimens were investigated. Results show that, due to the PSN (particle stimulate nucleation) mechanism, the addition of 0.5 wt.% Y improves the deformation resistance and weakens the basal texture of LA51 alloy. The effect of Y on UTS (ultimate tensile strength) of as-rolled alloys is more obvious than that of the as-cast alloy. Accumulated strain and rolling temperature could influence the twinning number, slip systems and DRX (dynamic recrystallization), thus affecting the microstructure and mechanical properties of the alloy. Under the proper combination of the above factors, the as-rolled LA51–0.5Y alloy with an accumulated strain of 68% at 573 K possesses the best comprehensive mechanical properties.

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