Fabrication of Surface Gradient Layer on a Low-Alloyed Mg-Zn-Ca-Mn Alloy and Its Effects on Mechanical Properties
摘要
A surface layer characterized by a gradient in grain size and precipitates on a low-alloyed Mg-Zn-Ca-Mn alloy through shot-peening treatment was fabricated, and the microstructure evolution and mechanical properties were investigated. The results indicated that the surface gradient layer was approximately 80 µm thick with nanoscale grains, ranging from 2 nm to 5 nm on the topmost surface. Additionally, Ca2Mg6Zn3 around 20 nm in size was induced by shot-peening treatment and the basal texture of the surface in the shot-peened sample was significantly weakened due to dynamic recrystallization and precipitation. These microstructural characteristics resulted in the yield strength increasing from 240 MPa to 280 MPa, with only a minor reduction in elongation. Fracture morphology indicated that the gradient layer exhibits a brittle fracture, while the underlying matrix retained a ductile fracture pattern.