Improvement of strength-ductility balance by Mn addition in Mg–Ca extruded alloy

Mg and its alloys have been extensively used in many fields given their low density and extensive resources. However, their strength and plasticity cannot satisfy the requirements of large-scale application. This investigation aims to provide a deep understanding of the influence of Mn on microstructure evolution to develop high strength and ductility of Mg–Ca–Mn extruded alloys. Results revealed that the mechanical properties containing tensile, compress strengths, and yield asymmetry of as-extruded alloys were significantly enhanced with the increase in Mn. The grains of Mg–Ca alloy were significantly refined because a mass of Mn particles efficaciously blocked newborn grain growth during extrusion. The enhanced strengths were mainly ascribed to the fine dynamic recrystallized grains and abundant fine Mn particles. Furthermore, the microstructure evolution and strengthening mechanism were discussed.