Recrystallization stands as an essential process that influences the microstructure and properties of magnesium (Mg) alloys, yet its mechanisms remain complex and multifaceted. This review explores the key factors affecting the recrystallization behavior of Mg alloys, emphasizing how their unique structural characteristics impact the driving forces and dynamics of recrystallization. Unlike conventional alloys, Mg alloys exhibit distinctive recrystallization kinetics, which is significantly affected by deformation conditions, such as strain rate, temperature, and processing methods (e.g., rolling, forging, and extrusion). The process is also influenced by material characteristics, including initial grain size, texture, dislocation density, solute clustering, and stacking fault energy. Additionally, uneven strain distribution, stress concentrations, and stored energy play crucial roles in shaping the formation of recrystallized grains, particularly near grain boundaries. Notably, recrystallization is driven by dislocation accumulation and the availability of slip systems, with new strain-free grains typically forming in regions of high dislocation density. This paper synthesizes the existing literature to provide a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms and kinetics of recrystallization in Mg alloys, highlighting the influence of microstructural features such as second-phase particles and grain boundary characteristics. It also identifies key challenges and suggests promising directions for future research, including optimizing material compositions and the interaction between deformation conditions via machine learning.

Twinning is widely recognized as an effective and cost-efficient method for controlling the microstructure and properties of wrought magnesium (Mg) alloys. Specifically, twins play a crucial role in initiating dynamic recrystallization (DRX), while twin regions experience rapid recrystallization during static recrystallization (SRX). The activation of twinning can lead to changes in lattice orientation, significantly impacting the final texture in Mg alloys. The active roles of twinning are influenced by various factors during the activation process, and the mobility of twin boundaries (TB) can be amplified by stress effects, dislocation interactions, and thermal effects. Conversely, annealing treatments that involve proper segregation or precipitation on TBs serve to stabilize them, restraining their motion. Events such as segregation may also alter the twinning propensity in Magnesium-rare earth (Mg-RE) alloys. While {10–11} contraction twins (CT) and {10–11}-{10–12} double twins (DT) can promote dynamic recrystallization (DRX), they also pose a risk as potential sources of voids and cracks. Additionally, understanding the nucleation and growth mechanisms of twinning is crucial, and these aspects are briefly reviewed in this article. Considering the factors mentioned above, this article summarizes the recent research progress in this field, shedding light on advancements in recent eras.