Effect of Zn on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Al–Mg–Si–Cu–Mn alloys
摘要
Effects of Zn addition on the mechanical properties and microstructure of Al-1.4 Mg-1.3Si-0.7Cu-0.6Mn-0.1Er alloy were studied by tensile tests and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The dominate strengthening phase for 3.0wt.% Zn and 4.5wt.% Zn addition alloy are QP2 disordered phase, forming a dual phase strengthening of QP2 phase and β′′ phase. The addition of Zn does not form new precipitates, the precipitation sequence is as follows: SSSS → atomic clusters → GP zones → β′′, QP1, QP2, C. The addition of Zn can make the alloy form a large number of GP zones by aging at 125 °C and promotes the transformation of GP zones to QP2 phase. The addition of Zn increases the yield strength of the alloy and results in the formation of coarse Mg–Zn phases at grain boundaries, which reduce the ductility of the alloy.
Graphical Abstract