Microstructure and mechanical properties of microalloyed and equal channel angular extruded Mg alloys

New Mg alloys with a grain size significantly below 10 μm were developed by a microalloying concept using industrial processing routes. Tensile testing at room temperature (RT) demonstrates superior strength and ductility with low strain anisotropy compared to conventional Mg alloys. Equal channel angular extrusion produces a submicrometer grain size, which further increases strength in compensation to only a small drop in RT ductility. We discuss strain-rate sensitivities and activation volumes as a function of grain size and temperature.