Multiple impacts of trace Tb addition on the secondary recrystallization and magnetostriction of Fe–Ga thin sheet

• Trace Tb addition accelerates secondary recrystallization of Goss texture in Fe–Ga thin sheets, enhancing magnetostrictive performance. • A 30% increase in magnetostriction is achieved in 0.07at% Tb-doped Fe81Ga19 thin sheets after quenching at 900°C. • The improvement is attributed to reduced Tb-rich precipitates and increased density of nanometer-sized modified-D03 inclusions. • The study offers a simple, efficient route combining trace rare-earth doping with conventional rolling for high-performance Fe–Ga thin sheets.