Microstructural Evolution and Mechanical Properties of AZ31 Magnesium Alloy Processed through Constrained Groove Pressing at Different Deformations and Temperatures

In this study, severe plastic deformation through the constrained groove pressing (CGP) method followed by an annealing operation was applied to the AZ31 Mg alloy sheets to improve their microstructural and mechanical properties. Accordingly, the sample is repeatedly deformed at high temperatures through a scheduled pressing succession to accelerate grain refinement. Investigating the deformation and temperature successions in the CGP process indicated their significant dependence on the microstructure characterization and mechanical properties. Also, processing temperature reduction restricted static recovery, recrystallization, and grain growth, leading to the development of fine- and ultrafine-grained structures. Hence, the appropriate selection of deformation and temperature successions can thoroughly affect the total strain, texture evolution, and grain refinement. Therefore, such a thermomechanical treatment can be extended to a broad range of materials.