MODIFICATION OF Al-Li ALLOY

Al-Li alloy is very attractive for stiffness in critical airframe components since it has an excellent combination of low density and high modulus. The properties of Al-Li alloy are greatly affected by its composition and microstructure. The misch metal has been known as a good modifier of aluminum alloys. Metallography and SEM/TEM studies show that RE can markedly fine down the as-cast dendrites of Al-Li alloy. It generally segregates at the dendrite boundary. Excessive RE may cause the formation of RE compounds in the alloy.

Microstructure of Modified Al-Li Alloy

RE content a:0 wt%(0#);b:0.1 wt%(1#);c:0.19wt%(2#);d:0.27wt%(3#);e:0.35wt%(4#) and f:0.43wt%(5#)

Modifier (RE) Distribution at the Grain Boundary


RELATED PUBLICATIONS

1. L. Wang, P. Dang, F. Du and M. Zhao, "Effect of Rare Earth Metals on Microstructure of Directional Solidified Al-3% Li Alloys", Journal of Rare Earths (English Edition), 198-201, 12 (1994).

2. P. Dang, L. Zhao, H. Lu and D. Tang, "Effect of Rare Earth on the Microstructure and Properties of Pure Copper", Rare Metals (English Edition), 277-280, 12 (1993).

3. P. Dang, L. Zhao and G. Hu, "Effect of Rare Earth on Anti-Oxidation of Copper", Journal of Applied Chemistry, 111, No.4, 9 (1992).

4. P. Dang, M. Zhao, K. Chang, X. Lu and F. Du, "Modification of the Microstructures of Al-3%Li Alloys", Rare Metals (English Edition), 272, No.4, 10 (1991).

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