Simultaneous Improvement of Strength and Ductility of Pure Zn by Sintering Using Fine Powder

Abstract

In this study, fine-grained Zn samples with excellent mechanical properties were prepared via spark plasma sintering (SPS) using fine Zn powder and heat treatment. The as-sintered sample prepared by SPS exhibited fine grain size and random crystallographic texture. Moreover, heat treatment induced recrystallization and reduced the dislocation density in the vicinity of the grain boundaries of the as-sintered samples. Mechanical testing revealed superior properties in the sintered and heat-treated samples, with the sample heat-treated at 650 K demonstrating an exceptional elongation exceeding 80%. The remarkable mechanical performance is linked to the initial microstructural characteristics and dynamic recrystallization (DRX) occurring during deformation. These findings suggest that the combination of SPS and heat treatment is an effective strategy for enhancing the mechanical properties of Zn, presenting potential applications in advanced materials and biomaterials.

Graphical Abstract

True stress-true strain curves of the as-cast, as-sintered, HT600, and HT650 pure Zn samples.