Evolution of plasticity, strain-rate sensitivity and the underlying deformation mechanism in Zn-22% Al during high-pressure torsion

Abstract

This study explores the evolution of plasticity, strain-rate sensitivity and the underlying deformation mechanism of a Zn-22% Al eutectoid alloy during high-pressure torsion processing. The experiments reveal an optimal torsional straining condition for achieving the largest plasticity; beyond this condition the strain-rate sensitivity decreases and activation volume increases. The results are discussed in terms of changes in the microstructure and the underlying deformation mechanism. (C) 2013 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.