MICROSTRUCTURAL EVOLUTION DURING RECOVERY IN AL-2.5-PERCENT-MG ALLOYS

Microstructural evolution in Al-2.5%Mg alloys with various Fe content deformed by cold rolling [<(epsilon)over bar> = 0.1-3] and recovered d uring static annealing (160 and 220 degrees C) was studied experimenta lly using the transmission electron microscopy techniques. Detailed in vestigations of the dislocation structures at small prestrains reveal a channel-like planar arrangement which does not show significant subg rain growth during annealing, whereas subgrain structures formed at hi gher prestrains lead to the onset of recrystallization when annealed. The microstructural evolution is discussed in relationship with the me chanical properties (yield stress) of the alloys. (C) 1998 Elsevier Sc ience S.A. All rights reserved.