Radiation resistant Al alloys for space applications

Project monitoring:

Dipl.-Ing. Patrick Willenshofer
Univ.-Prof. Dipl.-Ing. Dr.mont. Stefan Pogatscher

In order to reduce CO2 emissions, aluminum and its alloys are increasingly in the focus of attention in lightweight automotive construction. To improve the recyclability of aluminum, so-called “crossover alloys” have been developed. By mixing AlMg (5xxx) with AlZnMg (7xxx) alloy classes, the novel alloys are age-hardenable through precipitation of T-phase (Mg32(Al,Zn)49) and the advantageous properties of both classes are combined. Recent research results showed the irradiation-resistance of the T-phase.

This research investigates the relationship between microstructure and mechanical properties by different heat treatment strategies and, on the other hand, the precipitation sequence of T-phase using differential scanning calorimetry. In addition, two different approaches of manufacturing are investigated: conventional production of the alloy by hot and cold rolling and severe plastic deformation to produce a nanocrystalline microstructure by high pressure torsion (HPT).