Review on the effect of different processing techniques on the microstructure and mechanical behaviour of AZ31 Magnesium alloy

Magnesium (Mg) alloys despite being the ideal candidate for structural applications, owing to their high specific strength and low density, are not widely used due to lack of active slip systems at room temperature in their hexagonal close-packed crystal structure, eliciting poor ductility and formability. Amongst the various series of Mg alloys, the AZ and ZK series alloys have been standouts, as they inherit better room temperature strength and flow characteristics through their solute elements. Grain refinement, as well as eliminating casting defects through metal processing techniques are vital for the commercial viability of these alloys since they play a key role in controlling the mechanical behaviour. As such, this review highlights the effect of different Bulk-deformation and Severe Plastic Deformation techniques on the crystal orientation and the corresponding mechanical behaviours of the AZ31 alloy. However, every process parameter surrounding these techniques must be well thought of, as they require specially designed tools. With the advent of finite element analysis, these processes could be computationally realized for different parameters and optimized in an economically viable manner. Hence, this article also covers the developments made in finite element methods towards these techniques.