Analysis of high-temperature deformation and microstructure of an AZ31 magnesium alloy

High-temperature plastic deformation and dynamic recrystallization of AZ31 extruded (EX) and heat treated (FA) alloy was investigated in the temperature range between 200 and 400 °C. High-temperature straining resulted in partial dynamic recrystallization above 250 °C; in the EX alloy recrystallization was complete at 300 °C, while a moderate grain growth was observed at 400 °C. The peak flow stress dependence on temperature and strain rate are described by means of the conventional sinh equation; the calculation of the activation energy for high temperature in the whole range of temperature deformation gives Q = 155 kJ/mol, i.e. a value that was reasonably close but higher than the activation energy for self diffusion in Mg. The microstructure resulting from high-temperature straining was found to be substantially different in EX and FA alloys; in particular, the EX alloy was characterized by a lower flow stress, a higher ductility and by a finer size of the dynamically recrystallized grains. These results are then discussed on the basis of the “necklace” mechanism of dynamic recrystallization.