Analysis of Particle-Stimulated Nucleation (PSN)-Dominated Recrystallization for Hot-Rolled 7050 Aluminum Alloy

In 7xxx series aluminum alloys, the constituent large and small second-phase particles present during deformation process. The fraction and spatial distribution of these second-phase particles significantly influence the recrystallized structure, kinetics, and texture in the subsequent treatment. In the present work, the Monte Carlo Potts model was used to model particle-stimulated nucleation (PSN)-dominated recrystallization and grain growth in high-strength aluminum alloy 7050. The driving force for recrystallization is deformation-induced stored energy, which is also strongly affected by the coarse particle distribution. The actual microstructure and particle distribution of hot-rolled plate were used as an initial point for modeling of recrystallization during the subsequent solution heat treatment. Measurements from bright-field TEM images were performed to enhance qualitative interpretations of the developed microstructure. The influence of texture inhomogeneity has been demonstrated from a theoretical point of view using pole figures. Additionally, in situ annealing measurements in SEM were performed to track the orientational and microstructural changes and to provide experimental support for the recrystallization mechanism of PSN in AA7050.