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Effect of As-Cast Al₂O₃ Nanoparticles on Dynamic Recrystallization Behavior and Mechanical Properties of Mg-Gd-Y Alloy

Yan-Qiong Ma, Shuang Han, He Ma, Jian-She Lian

Journal of Ceramic Science and Technology, Vol. 17, No. 1 (2026), pp. 83-92

DOI: 10.4416/JCST2025-00022

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Abstract

This study investigates the influence of as-cast γ-Al2O3 nanoparticles on the dynamic recrystallization and mechanical properties of an Mg-10Gd-3Y alloy. Alumina nanoparticles (∼ 35 nm), synthesized via a green method using Mentha pulegium extract, were incorporated into the Mg alloy by means of stir-casting followed by extrusion. Microstructural characterization revealed uniform nanoparticle dispersion and grain refinement from 10.2 µm to 6.1 µm, accompanied by weakened basal texture. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirmed strong interfacial bonding, with Al2O3-related peaks at 74.8 eV and O 1s components at 531 – 532.5 eV. Mechanical testing demonstrated that 2 wt% Al2O3 increased the yield strength from 280 MPa to 320 MPa and ultimate tensile strength from 350 MPa to 380 MPa, while improving ductility to 20 %. Microhardness rose from 81 HV to 102 HV with increasing nanoparticle content. Dynamic recrystallization (DRX) analysis via EBSD and hot compression revealed accelerated DRX kinetics, achieving ∼ 60 % recrystallized grains at a true strain of 0.2 at 450 °C. Process maps identified optimal hot working conditions at 400 °C and strain rates of 0.01 – 0.1 s-1, with dissipation efficiency η reaching 0.5. Fractography showed ductile failure with uniform dimples and no evidence of particle debonding. The synergy between Al2O3 nanoparticles and LPSO phases enhances grain boundary nucleation and suppresses flow localization. These findings demonstrate that nanoparticle reinforcement offers a viable strategy to improve strength-ductility balance and high-temperature formability in RE-containing Mg alloys.

Keywords

Grain refinement, Orowan strengthening, texture evolution, particle-matrix interface, process map.

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