Texture and mechanical anisotropy in three extruded magnesium alloys

One ZM61 alloy (6·2%Zn, 1·2%Mn) and two magnesium alloys containing nominally 3% of neodymium and yttrium respectively have been prepared in the form of hot extruded flat strips. Their textures and microstructures have been quantified and series of mechanical tests were carried out to determine plane stress yield loci in both the solution treated and aged conditions. The ZM61 alloy had a sharp texture and marked anisotropy of strength that could be rationalised in terms of deformation by basal slip and {1012}<1011> twinning. This material was much weaker in compression than in tension. Precipitation hardening on aging caused a greater impedance to twinning than to slip with the result that the anisotropy was somewhat reduced. The Mg–3Nd alloy had a very weak and different texture but nevertheless demonstrated a pronounced anisotropy of strength. Aging increased the yield stress by about 80% and also inhibited twinning to some extent although the degree of anisotropy remained almost unaffected. The Mg–3Y alloy which showed a texture of intermediate strength was different in type from either of the others. Its strength behaviour was close to isotropic; in particular, no difference existed between tensile and compressive loading, and aging produced only a marginal increase in strength. Twins were relatively infrequent in the deformed Mg–3Y alloy but its mechanical behaviour could not be rationalised according to simple models.