Microstructure evolution of Mg-Zn-Zr magnesium alloy against soft steel core projectile

The study aimed to shed light on the post deformation and damage behavior of an extruded Mg-Zn-Zr alloy under a ballistic impact. The results revealed that the initial microstructure consisted of both {0001} basal and {10 (1) over bar0} prismatic fiber texture. After impact, adiabatic shear bands, pronounce different twinning in big grains, , , and types of dislocations, and grain refinement through twinning induce recrystallization accommodated the strain, and absorbed similar to 65.7 % of the energy during impact carried by a soft steel projectile. Interestingly, the deformation behavior at the top broad sides of the crater was entirely different. The weak basal texture was changed to a strong prismatic texture, which was further proved by typical sigmoidal compressive stress-strain curves. A revised model for the development of the ultra-fine grains adjacent to the crater has been proposed. The microhardness and yield strength was similar to 33 % and similar to 40 % higher and chiefly ascribed to strain hardening in ultra-fine grained near the surface of the perforation path. The exit of the perforation path was severely damaged and forms onion-shaped concentric rings which were comprised of melted zones, dimples, and cracks. Based on the all interesting findings, this study can be a clue for the development of the lightweight Mg alloy for military and aerospace applications. (C) 2021 Published by Elsevier Ltd on behalf of The editorial office of Journal of Materials Science & Technology.

Automated summary

The study investigated the post deformation and damage behavior of an extruded Mg-Zn-Zr alloy under a ballistic impact. Results showed that energy absorption was achieved through twinning induced recrystallization, and the top broad sides of the crater exhibited a change in texture from weak basal to strong prismatic. A revised model for the development of ultra-fine grains near the crater was proposed.