Solute clusters-promoted strength-ductility synergy in Al-Sc alloy

Sc solute clusters with a high number density were produced in an Al-0.3 wt.%Sc alloy when aged at 250 degrees C, while fine Al3Sc precipitates were predominantly formed in the same alloy aged at 300 degrees C. The alloy strengthened by Sc solute clusters displayed higher yield strength and simultaneously greater ductility than its counterpart strengthened by Al3Sc precipitates. This clearly demonstrates a superior strength ductility synergy promoted by the Sc solute clusters in Al-Sc alloys. The effects of Al3Sc precipitates and Sc solute clusters on ductility were discussed in comparison by using a micromechanics fracture model. Since the Sc clusters were stabilized at 250 degrees C, the Al-Sc alloys strengthened by Sc solute clusters should find extensive application fields within a wide temperature range, due to their high temperature resistance. (C) 2022 Published by Elsevier Ltd on behalf of The editorial office of Journal of Materials Science & Technology.

Automated summary

The study found that in Al-Sc alloys, the strengthening effect of Sc solute clusters is superior to that of Al3Sc precipitates, resulting in higher yield strength and ductility. The stability of Sc clusters at 250 degrees Celsius enables Al-Sc alloys strengthened by Sc solute clusters to have extensive applications across a wide temperature range due to their high temperature resistance.