Tensile and energy density properties of 2024, 6013, 8090 and 2091 aircraft aluminum alloy after corrosion exposure

Evaluation was made for the corrosion susceptibility of aircraft structure aluminum alloys 2024 T351, 6013 T6, 8090 T81 and 2091 T84. Tensile and energy density data were obtained. Stereoscopic and metallographic corrosion analysis were made as well. The specimens were pre-corroded using accelerated laboratory corrosion tests or out-door atmospheric conditions before testing. Noticeable decrease of yield and ultimate tensile stress were detected when the specimen surface was corroded. Dramatic volumetric embrittlement was observed even after short exposure times that were not sufficient for the appreciable development of surface corrosion attack. Observed material degradation behavior is attributed to hydrogen penetration and absorption. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.