Enhancing the room-temperature plasticity of magnesium alloys: Mechanisms and strategies

The room-temperature plasticity of magnesium and its alloys is limited primarily by their hexagonal close-packed (HCP) crystal structure, which restricts the number of active slip systems available at room temperature. This limitation hinders their broader application in various industries. Consequently, enhancing the room-temperature plasticity of magnesium alloys is essential for expanding their usage. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the underlying mechanisms and strategies for enhancing room-temperature plasticity in magnesium alloys. The first section emphasizes the importance of improving plasticity in these materials. The second section uses bibliometric analysis to identify key research trends and emerging hotspots in the field. The third section explores the deformation mechanisms and factors that influence room-temperature plasticity. The fourth section discusses various methods for enhancing plasticity. The fifth section focuses on achieving a balance between strength and plasticity. Finally, the review concludes with insights into future prospects and challenges, offering guidance for the development of high-plasticity magnesium alloys and serving as a resource for both research and industrial applications.