A closer look at constituent induced localised corrosion in Al-Cu-Mg alloys

The role of constituent intermetallic particles in the pitting corrosion of aluminium (Al) alloys is well recognised. A definitive quantification of the role of unique constituent particles has contributed towards an enhanced understanding of Al-alloy corrosion, however the complexity of Al-alloy microstructures warrants further attention. In the present work we identify a unique intermetallic type in contemporary versions of AA2024-T3, which has a two-phase structure, defined by two distinct crystal types, and distinct compositions. Detailed characterisation is used to unambiguously define this constituent, along with its role in localised corrosion. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.