Unique strengthening mechanisms of ultrahigh pressure Mg alloys

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 Mg₁₇Al₁₂ 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.