Achieving higher dynamic mechanical response by adjusting texture through twinning in a ZK61 Mg alloy

In this study, texture c-axis//ND of ZK61-T6 Mg alloy was reoriented towards c-axis//ED, TD and tilted in between ED and TD in a ZK61-PC Mg alloy through cross pre-compression. Subsequently, quasi-static and dynamic mechanical behaviour was examined. The results showed that compressive yield strength, ultimate compressive strength and elongation to fracture were considerably increased from 140 to 220 MPa, 374–437 MPa and 0.15–0.16, respectively. This increase was the synergistic effect of texture, grain refinement through twin boundaries and pre-induced dislocation hardening effect. In addition, an exceptional increase of ultimate compressive strength (531 MPa) was obtained under dynamic loading. The microstructure evolution of deformed specimens revealed that the propensity and width of the adiabatic shear band were increased with an increase in strain rate in ZK61-PC Mg alloy. In addition, twinning, de-twinning, and dislocation inside the twin and the matrix absorbed the high-stress energy and provided a higher mechanical response in ZK61-PC Mg alloy. The twinning induce rotational dynamic recrystallization mechanism was responsible for the development of fine grains. Based on the results, it is recommended that pre-compression is a practical way to increase the efficiency of the ZK61 Mg alloy. •Cross pre-compression redistributed the texture through numerous twinning activity.•The CYS, UCS and FE were increased significantly in ZK61-PC Mg alloy.•Width and propensity of ASB increased with increase in strain rate in ZK61-PC Mg alloy.•Twin induce rotational dynamic recrystallization mechanism was responsible for development of FGs.• and type of dislocations were witnessed inside the twin and in the matrix.