Microstructure of superplastic alloys

Abstract

Abstract Studies are described which involve the routes to the equiaxed fine structure needed for superplastic behaviour in two-phase Zn–Al alloys. These indicate that the development of a spinodal structure is not an essential step towards achieving a superplastic structure in this alloy. Some microstructural aspects and mechanical behaviour characteristics of superplastic Zn–Al alloys are presented which suggest that the major mechanism of deformation in these alloys is crystallographic slip accompanied by grain boundary migration or recrystallization.