Investigation of Homogenization Treatment in Al- Li- Cu- Zr Alloys

Abstract

Aluminum-Lithium alloys were developed as major replacements for existing aluminum alloys to reduce the weight of aircraft and aerospace structures. Mechanical properties of Al-Li alloys greatly depend on solidification conditions. Other than reducing the microsegregation, homogenization treatment has other effects on the microstructure of Al-Li ingots. In this research, effects of homogenization treatment at constant temperature (500°C) on the precipitation in the microstructure of Al-1Li-3Cu-0.1Zr (wt %) and Al-2Li-3Cu- 0.1Zr (wt %) specimens have been investigated. Results show that homogenization at 500°C for 24 hours not only increases the hardness and phases precipitating in grain but also reduces microsegregation of Fe in grain boundaries.