Abstract

In this study, an ultrasonic surface rolling process (USRP) was employed to enhance the surface performance of a GW63K-T6 magnesium alloy. The results show that the USRP induces a gradient-distributed {10–12} deformation twin structure in the surface layer, with twin density decreasing progressively from the surface inward. Following USRP treatment, surface microhardness increased by approximately 40%, yield strength (YS) by about 26%, and ultimate tensile strength (UTS) by roughly 11%. Corrosion resistance was also significantly improved, as evidenced primarily by a weight loss reduction of approximately 50% after 120 h of immersion corrosion and further supported by polarization curves with a positive shift in corrosion potential and a decrease in current density for the USRP-treated samples. The observed improvements in mechanical properties and corrosion resistance are closely associated with the gradient twin structure. These findings suggest that the USRP is a promising technique for the simultaneous enhancement in mechanical and corrosion properties of Mg-RE alloys, although further investigation is needed to fully elucidate the underlying mechanisms.

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