Experimental investigation of eutectic point in Al-rich Al-La, Al-Ce, Al-Pr and Al-Nd systems

In order to confirm the eutectic composition, eutectic temperature and phases of Al-rich Al-RE (La, Ce, Pr, Nd) binary systems, the eutectic Al-RE alloys with the controversial compositions were investigated. The scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM/EDS), differential scanning calorimetric (DSC) and cooling curve tests analysis indicated that a similar eutectic composition (similar to 12 wt.% RE) on the Al-rich region was observed in the Al-La, Al-Ce, Al-Pr and Al-Nd alloys, and the eutectic structure of the alloys was consisted of alpha-Al and alpha-Al11RE3 phases by combining with X-ray diffraction (XRD) tests. In addition, the eutectic temperatures determined by DSC and cooling curve tests were very close and around 645 degrees C.