Recrystallization aspects and factors affecting their roles in Mg alloys: A comprehensive review

Abstract

Recrystallization stands as an essential process that influences the microstructure and properties of magnesium (Mg) alloys, yet its mechanisms remain complex and multifaceted. This review explores the key factors affecting the recrystallization behavior of Mg alloys, emphasizing how their unique structural characteristics impact the driving forces and dynamics of recrystallization. Unlike conventional alloys, Mg alloys exhibit distinctive recrystallization kinetics, which is significantly affected by deformation conditions, such as strain rate, temperature, and processing methods (e.g., rolling, forging, and extrusion). The process is also influenced by material characteristics, including initial grain size, texture, dislocation density, solute clustering, and stacking fault energy. Additionally, uneven strain distribution, stress concentrations, and stored energy play crucial roles in shaping the formation of recrystallized grains, particularly near grain boundaries. Notably, recrystallization is driven by dislocation accumulation and the availability of slip systems, with new strain-free grains typically forming in regions of high dislocation density. This paper synthesizes the existing literature to provide a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms and kinetics of recrystallization in Mg alloys, highlighting the influence of microstructural features such as second-phase particles and grain boundary characteristics. It also identifies key challenges and suggests promising directions for future research, including optimizing material compositions and the interaction between deformation conditions via machine learning.