Microstructural Analysis and Mechanical Characteristics of Multi-layered Al-Alloy 5052 Fabricated by Accumulative Roll Bonding

In this study, the Accumulative Roll Bonding (ARB) technique was used to develop an aluminum alloy with an exceptionally refined grain structure. By examining the materials after various ARB cycles, we observed notable improvements in their mechanical properties. X-ray diffraction revealed a significant reduction in crystallite size from 29 nm to 19 nm after five passes through the ARB process. This refinement corresponded with remarkable increases in both yield and ultimate tensile strength, with the yield strength improving by 113% and tensile strength by 60% compared to the original alloy after the fifth pass. Microhardness testing showed a substantial 40% increase, reaching a hardness value of 73.3 HV. Optical microscopy of the roll-bonded Al5052 alloy sheet displayed ductile shear rupture characterized by elongated shear dimples. These findings clearly demonstrate that the ARB process is highly effective in producing an ultra-fine-grained aluminum alloy with significantly enhanced mechanical properties.