Constitutive behavior and processing maps of a new wrought magnesium alloy ZE20 (Mg-2Zn-0.2Ce)

ZE20 (Mg-2Zn-0.2Ce)(2) is a new wrought magnesium alloy with improved extrudability and mechanical properties [1]. To understand the constitutive behavior and workability of this new alloy, Gleeble thermomechanical testing has been carried out in this study. The flow stress behavior of ZE20 was investigated between 250 degrees C-450 degrees C and 10(-3) s(-1)-1.0 s(-1) in isothermal compression. Constitutive descriptions of the flow stress are provided. A new general approach at application of the extended Ludwik equation is demonstrated and was found to be more accurate than the hyperbolic sine Arrhenius model while having a similar number of model constants. Processing maps were developed based on the experimental results and are verified with microstructural investigation. A region of safe processing with non-basal texture and high activity of dynamic recrystallization (DRX) was found between 375 degrees C and 450 degrees C, from 10(-1) s(-1) to 10-2.5 s(-1). A region of potentially safe processing with annealing that is associated with shear band nucleation of non-basal grains was identified for temperatures as low as 300 degrees C and rates as high as 10(-1) s(-1). (c) 2020 Published by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of Chongqing University.