Unique strengthening mechanisms of ultrahigh pressure Mg alloys

Abstract Ultrahigh pressure technique remarkably extends solid solubility limitation of Al alloying element (∼25 at.%) in Mg alloys, resulting in unique solid-solution strengthening and age hardening response. Microhardness, yield strength and ultimate compressive strength are improved simultaneously without degrading plasticity by forming homogeneous and globular-shaped Mg 17 Al 12 precipitates of 10–30 nm. In addition, thermal resistance is enhanced by eliminating the dominant growth of (101) plane and anchoring dense stacking faults in phase interface.