Hardening of [0001]-magnesium nanocrystals: Molecular dynamics simulation

The deformation properties of nanocrystals of magnesium under high-speed deformation (υ=3·108 s−1) has been studied numerically using the molecular dynamics simulations (MD) with embedded atom interatomic potential (EAM). Uniaxial compression and plane-strain compression of [0001]-nanocrystals are considered. Deformation curves, evolution of dislocation density, change of deformation velocity and potential energy are given for both loading schemes. The influence of the loading scheme on the deformation and strength characteristics of [0001]-magnesium nanocrystals is discussed. The behavior of deformation curves for different loading schemes is explained.