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Bending Properties of Locally Laser Heat Treated AA2024-T3 Aluminium Alloy
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Mohammadi, Amirahmad; Vanhove, Hans; Van Bael, Albert; Duflou, Joost R.
The bending properties of AA2024-T3 aluminium alloy after localized laser assisted softening have been studied and compared to untreated material. Single and multi-path laser scanning strategies are applied for achieving a predictable and minimized springback. Process parameters for softening have been chosen based on FE modeling. In order to investigate the softening, and to characterize the size of this softened region, hardness measurements were carried out. Using a triple scanning path strategy springback was reduced by about 43% without changing the bending radius.
Growth of PEO ceramic coatings on AA 2024-T3 aluminium alloy
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Forero Sotomonte, S.; Blanco Pinzon, C.; García Vergara, S.
The growth of PEO ceramic coatings on AA 2024-T3 aluminium alloy in an aqueous Na2SiO3 (10.5g/l), KOH (2.8g/l) solution at 310 and 400V for 500 and 710s, was investigated. The morphology, roughness and thickness of the coatings were determined by SEM, digital microscopy, XRD diffraction analysis and thickness measuring instrument. The results show that thicker coatings are produced with longer process times and high applied voltages. Due to the nature of the PEO process, the roughness of the surface coatings increases as the coating become thicker, due to the development of sparks. The coatings are porous, with a crater like morphology and they are mainly amorphous.
Finite Element Modelling of the Sawing of DC Cast AA2024 Aluminium Alloy Slabs
Drezet, J.-M.; Ludwig, O.; Heinrich, B.
In the semi-continuous casting of large cross-section rolling sheet ingots of high-strength aluminum alloys (2xxx and 7xxx series), the control of the residual (internal) stresses generated by the non-uniform cooling becomes a necessity. These stresses must be relieved by a thermal treatment before the head and foot of the ingot can be cut. Otherwise, the saw can be caught owing to compressive stresses or cut parts may be ejected thus injuring people or damaging equipment. These high added-value ingots need to be produced in secure conditions. Moreover, a better control of the sawing procedure could allow the suppression of the thermal treatment and therefore save time and energy. By studying the stress build-up during casting and the stress relief during sawing, key parameters for the control and optimization of the processing steps, can be derived. To do so, the direct chill (DC) casting of the AA2024 alloy is modeled with ABAQUS 6.5 with special attention to the thermo-mechanical properties of the alloy. The sawing operation is then simulated by removing mesh elements so as to reproduce the progression of the saw in the ingot. Preliminary results showing the stress relief during sawing accompanied by the risk of saw blocking due to compression or initiating a crack ahead of the saw, are analyzed with an approach based on the rate of strain energy release.
Finite Element Modelling of the Sawing of DC Cast AA2024 Aluminium Alloy Slabs
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Drezet, J.-M.; Ludwig, O.; Heinrich, B.
In the semi-continuous casting of large cross-section rolling sheet ingots of high-strength aluminum alloys (2xxx and 7xxx series), the control of the residual (internal) stresses generated by the non-uniform cooling becomes a necessity. These stresses must be relieved by a thermal treatment before the head and foot of the ingot can be cut. Otherwise, the saw can be caught owing to compressive stresses or cut parts may be ejected thus injuring people or damaging equipment. These high added-value ingots need to be produced in secure conditions. Moreover, a better control of the sawing procedure could allow the suppression of the thermal treatment and therefore save time and energy. By studying the stress build-up during casting and the stress relief during sawing, key parameters for the control and optimization of the processing steps, can be derived. To do so, the direct chill (DC) casting of the AA2024 alloy is modeled with ABAQUS 6.5 with special attention to the thermo-mechanical properties of the alloy. The sawing operation is then simulated by removing mesh elements so as to reproduce the progression of the saw in the ingot. Preliminary results showing the stress relief during sawing accompanied by the risk of saw blocking due to compression or initiating a crack ahead of the saw, are analyzed with an approach based on the rate of strain energy release.
Finite element modelling of shot peening and peen forming processes and characterisation of peened AA2024-T351 aluminium alloy
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Gariepy, Alexandre
The main purpose of this thesis was to develop and validate finite element (FE) simulation tools for shot peening and peen forming. The specific aim was to achieve quantitatively accurate predictions for both processes and demonstrate the potential of reliable FE modelling for scientific investigation and industrial applications. First, an improved dynamic impact model that takes into account the stochastic nature of shot peening was proposed by carefully studying its dimensions, introducing a dispersion of shot sizes and significantly reducing its computational cost. In addition, cyclic mechanical testing was conducted to define a suitable material constitutive theory for aluminium alloy (AA) 2024-T3/T351 subjected to shot peening. By combining a realistic shot peening model with an appropriate material law, fairly good residual stress predictions were achieved for three different sets of shot peening parameters. Second, an experimental and numerical characterization of AA2024-T351 shot peened with parameters representative of fatigue life improvement applications was conducted. Multiple techniques, such as micro-indentation, residual stress determination and electron backscatter diffraction, were combined to gain a better understanding of the influence of shot peening on the material. The potential uses of finite element simulation to complement experimental data were also studied. The material heterogeneity arising from the random impact sequence was investigated and it was found that the impact modelling methodology could provide useful information on such heterogeneities. Third, a novel peen forming simulation methodology was introduced. The impact model provided the necessary input data as part of a multiscale approach. Numerically calculated unbalanced induced stress profiles were input into shell elements and the deformed shape after peen forming was computed as a springback analysis. In addition, a simple interpolation method was proposed to model the
The corrosion protection of AA2024-T3 aluminium alloy by leaching of lithium-containing salts from organic coatings.
Visser, Peter; Liu, Yanwen; Zhou, Xiaorong; Hashimoto, Teruo; Thompson, George E; Lyon, Stuart B; van der Ven, Leendert G J; Mol, Arjan J M C; Terryn, Herman A
Lithium carbonate and lithium oxalate were incorporated as leachable corrosion inhibitors in model organic coatings for the protection of AA2024-T3. The coated samples were artificially damaged with a scribe. It was found that the lithium-salts are able to leach from the organic coating and form a protective layer in the scribe on AA2024-T3 under neutral salt spray conditions. The present paper shows the first observation and analysis of these corrosion protective layers, generated from lithium-salt loaded organic coatings. The scribed areas were examined by scanning and transmission electron microscopy before and after neutral salt spray exposure (ASTM-B117). The protective layers typically consist of three different layered regions, including a relatively dense layer near the alloy substrate, a porous middle layer and a flake-shaped outer layer, with lithium uniformly distributed throughout all three layers. Scanning electron microscopy and white light interferometry surface roughness measurements demonstrate that the formation of the layer occurs rapidly and, therefore provides an effective inhibition mechanism. Based on the observation of this work, a mechanism is proposed for the formation of these protective layers. PMID:25927079
A computational study of low-head direct chill slab casting of aluminum alloy AA2024
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Hasan, Mainul; Begum, Latifa
The steady state casting of an industrial-sized AA2024 slab has been modeled for a vertical low-head direct chill caster. The previously verified 3-D CFD code is used to investigate the solidification phenomena of the said long-range alloy by varying the pouring temperature, casting speed and the metal-mold contact heat transfer coefficient from 654 to 702 °C, 60-180 mm/min, and 1.0-4.0 kW/(m2 K), respectively. The important predicted results are presented and thoroughly discussed.
Microstructure and anisotropic mechanical behavior of friction stir welded AA2024 alloy sheets
Zhang, Zhihan; Li, Wenya; Li, Jinglong; Chao, Y.J.; Vairis, A.
The anisotropic mechanical properties of friction stir welded (FSW) AA2024-T3 alloy joints were investigated based on the uniaxial tensile tests. The joint microstructure was examined by using electron back-scattered diffraction and transmission electron microscope. Results show that the evident anisotropic failure and yielding are present in the FSW joints. With the increase of loading angle from 0° to 90° the ultimate tensile strength and elongation of the specimens consistently decrease, or at first decrease and then increase, depending on the FSW process parameters. The specimen cut from the weld direction, i.e. a loading angle of 0°, exhibits the highest strength and elongation. - Highlights: • Microstructure and anisotropy of friction stir welded joints were studied. • The evident anisotropic failure and yielding are present in joints. • The lowest yield stress and UTS are at 45° and 60° loadings, respectively. • Rotation speed heavily impact on the anisotropy of joints.
Conducting polymer/polyimide-clay nanocomposite coatings for corrosion protection of AA-2024 alloy
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Shah, Kunal G.
Corrosion of metals is a major problem in the aerospace and automobile industry. The current methods of corrosion protection such as chromate conversion coatings are under increased scrutiny from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) due to their carcinogenic nature. Intrinsically conducting polymers (ICPs) like polyaniline and polypyrrole have been considered as a potential replacement for chromate conversion coatings and have been under investigation since past decade. The goal of this study is to replace the chromate conversion coating by an environmentally friendly organic coating. Poly (N-ethyl aniline) coating was electrodeposited as the primer layer and polyimide-clay nanocomposite was solution cast as the barrier layer on AA-2024 alloy. This study will provide a better understanding of the corrosion protection mechanism of the conducting polymer coating. Various characterization techniques such as infrared spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry and scanning electron microscopy were used to study the formation, chemical structure and morphology of the coatings. Electrodeposition parameters like monomer concentration, applied current density and the reaction time were varied in order to optimize the properties of the conducting polymer coating. The corrosion performance of the primer coating was evaluated by DC polarization studies. It was found that poly (N-ethyl aniline) reduces from emeraldine to leucoemeraldine form; reducing the rate of cathodic reaction, which reduces the rate of corrosion of AA-2024 alloy. Polyimide-clay nanocomposite coating was solution cast on the conducting polymer primer layer for enhancing the barrier and corrosion properties of the coating system. The concentration of polyimide (10--25 vol%) and clay (0.1 and 1 wt%) were varied in the coating formulation to optimize the barrier properties of topcoat. X-ray diffraction showed that the intergallery clay distance decreased from 17.2 A to 11.79 A after immidization of polyimide
Corrosion studies and interfacial bonding of urea/poly(dimethylsiloxane) sol/gel hydrophobic coatings on AA 2024 aluminum alloy.
Fir, Mojca; Orel, Boris; Vuk, Angela Surca; Vilcnik, Aljaz; Jese, Robi; Francetic, Vojmir
Bis[(ureapropyl)triethoxysilane] bis(propyl)-terminated-polydimethylsiloxane 1000 (PDMSU), an organic-inorganic hybrid, diluted in either EtOH or a mixture of EtOH-PrOH, was used in thin film form (<200 nm) to inhibit the corrosion of AA 2024 alloy. Potentiodynamic, time-dependent cyclovoltammetric measurements and salt spray tests showed that the corrosion inhibition of the latter was 10 times higher than that of the former films. This was correlated with the higher degree of hydrolysis and the formation of more open polyhedral silsesquioxane species (T2) in the bulk heat-treated PDMSU/EtOH-PrOH xerogels (29Si NMR spectra). The structure of the coatings deposited on AA 2024 Al alloy was deduced from the infrared reflection-absorption (IR RA) spectra, which revealed more extensive urea-urea interactions and more efficient silane-Al interface bonding for the PDMSU/EtOH-PrOH coatings with higher corrosion inhibition. Ex situ IR RA potentiodynamic spectroelectrochemical measurements of PDMSU coatings revealed that their degradation did not proceed via the formation of silanol groups and consequent hydration of the coatings but that they decomposed above E(corr) by forming fragments composed of -CH2- segments in an all-trans conformation. PMID:17429986
Influence of the tribological phenomenon on the tool wear in dry drilling of aluminum alloy AA2024 T351
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Nouari, M.; List, G.; Girot, F.
In machining, the formation of chip and tool wear is controlled by the tribological phenomenon at the tool-chip interface. Investigations show that the contact between the tool and the chip tends to change from a sliding contact to a sticking contact. When the cutting speed is increased, the tool rake face temperature can attain large values (sometimes of the order of 1000 °C in the case of machining steels). Without the use of coolants and lubricants, this temperature can be higher. These high temperatures are due to the important deformation work associated with large shear strains in the primary shear zone, and to the friction effects along the tool-chip interface. An experimental analysis of the tool wear for dry machining of aeronautic aluminum alloy AA2024 T351 is proposed. The change in the tribological conditions at the tool-chip interface is discussed.
The structure and composition of chromate conversion coatings formed on aluminum-copper alloy AA2024-T3 and thin film analogs of constituent intermetallic compounds
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Vasquez, Marvin Jaime
A comprehensive suite of spectroscopy have been used to study the composition and structure of Chromate Conversion Coatings (CCC) formed on Aluminum Copper (Al-Cu) alloy AA2024-T3 and constituent Intermetallic Compounds (IMCs). Based on previous work the CCC formed over the IMCs is expected to be thinner and therefore different in structure and composition than the CCC formed on the matrix. The formation of the CCC over the different IMCs is expected to be dependent on the chemistry and the interaction of the IMCs with accelerators such as ferricyanide. Surface chemical and structural data determined by X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), Synchrotron Infrared Microspectroscopy, X-ray Absorption Near Edge Spectroscopy (XANES), Extended X-ray Absorption Fine Structure (EXAFS), Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (SIMS), and Secondary Electron Microscopy/Energy Dispersive Analysis of X-rays (SEM/EDAX) have been developed to refine an existing model for the CCC formed on the AA2024-T3 surface, an Al-Cu aircraft alloy, by considering the composition and structure of the CCC formed on constituent intermetallic compounds (IMCs). The limited corrosion behavior of AA2024-T3 aluminum alloy is generally attributed to the presence of a variety of constituent IMC. These IMC particles are of the order of 1--20 mum which makes their direct analysis exceedingly difficult and has lead to a limited understanding of their surface chemical properties relative to CCC formation. To overcome this limitation, it was necessary to develop for the first time large area samples composed of compositionally homogenous thin films of the various IMCs found on the AA2024-T3 surface, which were galvanically attached to thin films of Al-4.2wt%Cu (representative of the AA2024-T3 matrix). This was performed in a two-step process: Disks of IMC compositions were formed by Reactive Arc Melting (RAM), followed by ultra-fast laser ablation of the RAM IMCs resulting in the formation of homogenous thin films
Modeling of the Effect of Temperature, Frequency, and Phase Transformations on the Viscoelastic Properties of AA 7075-T6 and AA 2024-T3 Aluminum Alloys
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Rojas, Jose I.; Crespo, Daniel
The viscoelastic response of commercial aluminum alloys 7075-T6 and 2024-T3 as a function of temperature is presented. Experimental data are obtained with a dynamic-mechanical analyzer (DMA) at different loading frequencies and compared with the available transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) data. The effect of successive microstructural transformations (particle precipitation and redissolution) is revealed. An analytical model is developed, which fits the mechanical response up to 573 K (300 °C). The model takes into account the concentration of Guinier-Preston Zones (GPZ) and metastable precipitates ( η' in AA 7075-T6 and θ'/S' in AA 2024-T3), allowing us to determine the kinetic parameters of these transformations. The activation energies were previously obtained by several authors from DSC measurements and other techniques, showing considerable dispersion. The presented data, obtained with a completely different technique, allow us to reduce the uncertainty on these data and show the potential of DMA measurements in the study of microstructural transformations.
Finite Element Simulation of Temperature and Strain Distribution during Friction Stir Welding of AA2024 Aluminum Alloy
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Jain, Rahul; Pal, Surjya Kanta; Singh, Shiv Brat
Friction Stir Welding (FSW) is a solid state joining process and is handy for welding aluminum alloys. Finite Element Method (FEM) is an important tool to predict state variables of the process but numerical simulation of FSW is highly complex due to non-linear contact interactions between tool and work piece and interdependency of displacement and temperature. In the present work, a three dimensional coupled thermo-mechanical method based on Lagrangian implicit method is proposed to study the thermal history, strain distribution and thermo-mechanical process in butt welding of Aluminum alloy 2024 using DEFORM-3D software. Workpiece is defined as rigid-visco plastic material and sticking condition between tool and work piece is defined. Adaptive re-meshing is used to tackle high mesh distortion. Effect of tool rotational and welding speed on plastic strain is studied and insight is given on asymmetric nature of FSW process. Temperature distribution on the workpiece and tool is predicted and maximum temperature is found in workpiece top surface.
Effect of Grain Refinement on Structure Evolution, ``Floating'' Grains, and Centerline Macrosegregation in Direct-Chill Cast AA2024 Alloy Billets
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Nadella, R.; Eskin, D. G.; Katgerman, L.
Direct-chill (DC) cast billets 192 mm in diameter of an Al-Cu-Mg alloy were examined in detail with the aim to reveal the effects of grain refining (GR) and casting speed on structure, "floating" grains, and centerline macrosegregation. Experimental results show that grain size and dendrite arm spacing (DAS) tend to coarsen toward the billet center with a local refinement DAS in the center. In GR billets, grain size does not change much with the cooling rate, casting speed, and grain refiner amount. Coarse-DAS (floating) grains are observed around the billet axis regardless of GR and the amount of Ti, though their amount is significantly higher in GR billets. Macrosegregation profiles show a negligible influence of GR, while the effect of casting speed is large. The concept of solute-depleted floating grains contributing to the centerline macrosegregation is substantiated by microsegregation measurements, which show that, independent of GR, coarse dendrite branches have a depleted concentration plateau in contrast to the fine dendrite arms.
Blister Test for Measurements of Adhesion and Adhesion Degradation of Organic Polymers on AA2024-T3
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Rincon Troconis, Brendy Carolina
cleaning/desmutting and conversion coating (CC) on the adhesion strength of acetoacetate to AA2024-T3 and the effects of improper water rinse temperature after cleaner were assessed using the BT. The results showed that pretreatments improve the adhesion strength of acetoacetate primer on AA2024-T3, but the comparative behavior depends on the specific treatment. Process control is of paramount importance for the performance of acetoacetate coated systems applied on AA2024-T3. The lack of thermal activity in the water rinse after cleaning step produces deleterious effects on the adhesion and blistering resistance of CC. Finally, a test sample incorporating a coated and scribed Al alloy panel and uncoated through-hole fasteners (Ti, SS316, AA2024-T3) was designed to provide accelerated response during atmospheric corrosion testing in the field (long-term beach exposure) or in laboratory chambers (ASTM B117). The results after only three weeks of exposure to ASTM B117 correlated well with long-term beach exposure, allowing rapid ranking of different coating systems. Of the fastener materials studied, visual observation and volume lost determination indicated that the worst attack occurred near SS316 fasteners its effect was explained by Scanning Kelvin Probe measurements and the available cathodic current measured in chloride solution.
Effects of aging temperature and time on the corrosion protection provided by trivalent chromium process coatings on AA2024-T3.
Li, Liangliang; Swain, Greg M
The effects of aging temperature and time on the physical structure of and corrosion protection provided by trivalent chromium process (TCP) coatings on AA2024-T3 are reported. The TCP coating forms a partially blocking barrier layer on the alloy surface that consists of hydrated channels and or defects. It is through these channels and defects that ions and dissolved O2 can be transported to small areas of the underlying alloy. Reactions initiate at these sites, which can ultimately lead to undercutting of the coating and localized corrosion. We tested the hypothesis that collapsing the channels and or reducing the number of defects in the coating might be possible through post-deposition heat treatment, and that this would enhance the corrosion protection provided by the coating. This was tested by aging the TCP-coated AA2024 alloys in air overnight at room temperature (RT), 55, 100, or 150 °C. The TCP coating became dehydrated and thinner at the high temperatures (55 and 100 °C). This improved the corrosion protection as evidenced by a 2× increase in the charge transfer resistance. Aging at 150 °C caused excessive coating dehydration and shrinkage. This led to severe cracking and detachment of the coating from the surface. The TCP-coated AA2024 samples were also aged in air at RT from 1 to 7 days. There was no thinning of the coating, but the corrosion protection was enhanced with a longer aging period as evidenced by a 4× increase in the charge transfer resistance. The coating became more hydrophobic after aging at elevated temperature (up to 100 °C) and with aging time at RT as evidenced by an increased water contact angle from 7 to 100 °C. PMID:23845106
Analysis of electrochemical noise from metastable pitting in aluminum, aged Al-2%Cu, and AA 2024-T3
Pride, S.T.; Scully, J.R.; Hudson, J.L.
The authors compare methods of analyzing electrochemical current (ECN) and potential (EPN) noise data associated with metastable pitting and the transition from metastable to stable pitting. Various analysis methods were applied to electrochemical noise data associated with metastable pit events on aluminum, aged Al-2%Cu, and AA 2024-T3 ST. Two experimental approaches were used. High-purity Al, roughly simulating copper-depleted grain boundary zones in aged Al-Cu alloys, was potentiostatically polarized so that current spikes associated with individual pitting events could be analyzed. Second, the coupling current between nominally identical galvanically coupled Al, aged Al-2%Cu, and AA 2024-T3 ST electrodes was recorded in conjunction with couple potential using a saturated calomel reference electrode. Pit stabilization occurred when individual pits exceeded a threshold of I{sub pit}/r{sub pit} > 10{sup {minus}2} A/cm at all times during pit growth as established from potentiostatic measurements. The magnitude of this ratio is linked directly to the concentration of the aggressive solution within pits. Two related statistical pit stabilization factors (I{sub rms}/r{sub pit total} from ECN data and the mean of (I{sub peak}-I{sub ox})/r{sub pit} values from each pit current spike) were obtained from galvanic ECN data containing a large number of pit current spikes. These parameters provided a better indication of the transition to stable pitting than the pitting index or noise resistance but also had shortcomings. Spectral analysis using current and potential spectral power density (SPD) data provided qualitative information on pit susceptibility. However, the transition to stable pitting could not be accurately defined because of a lack of information on pit sizes in spectral data.
Corrosion protection of untreated AA-2024-T3 in chloride solution by a chromate conversion coating monitored with Raman spectroscopy
Zhao, J.; Frankel, G.; McCreery, R.L.
The behavior of chromate conversion coatings (CCCs) on the aluminum aircraft alloy AA 2024-T3 was examined by several types of experiments, using Raman spectroscopy as a primary technique. First, Raman spectra of the CCC film made from a commercial process revealed a Raman feature characteristic of Cr(VI) which was distinct from Raman bands to an initially untreated alloy sample. The release of chromate from a CCC was demonstrated, as was redeposition of a chromate film on the fresh alloy surface. Formation of a Raman-observable Cr(VI)-containing deposit was more rapid in or near pits in the untreated alloy sample, and the deposit was spectroscopically very similar to the original CCC film. The initially untreated alloy became much less active toward corrosion after migration of chromate from the nearby CCC film, with the polarization resistance increasing by at least two orders of magnitude and the pitting potential increasing by 60 mV. The results clarify the mechanism of self-healing exhibited by CCC films, in which chromate species released from the CCC migrate to an actively corroding region and stop aluminum dissolution. The migrating chromate is selectively deposited at active corrosion sites, either by forming an insoluble Al/chromate precipitate or by adsorption by previously formed corrosion products.
Hot tearing evaluation for aluminium alloys
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Brůna, Marek
Hot tearing during solidification of aluminium alloys castings can be a serious problem. This phenomenon is well known but still insufficiently investigated. Hot tearing occurs in form of irregular cracks in metal castings that develop during solidification and cooling. The cause of hot tearing is generally attributed to the development of thermally induced tensile stresses and strains in a casting as the molten metal contracts during solidification and solid state shrinkage. Submited paper consists of two parts. The first part introduces the reader to the phenomenon of hot tearing. The second part describes newly developed method for assessing hot tearing susceptibility of aluminium alloys, and also gives the results on hot tearing for various aluminium alloys.
Thermodynamic properties of uranium in gallium-aluminium based alloys
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Volkovich, V. A.; Maltsev, D. S.; Yamshchikov, L. F.; Chukin, A. V.; Smolenski, V. V.; Novoselova, A. V.; Osipenko, A. G.
Activity, activity coefficients and solubility of uranium was determined in gallium-aluminium alloys containing 1.6 (eutectic), 5 and 20 wt.% aluminium. Additionally, activity of uranium was determined in aluminium and Ga-Al alloys containing 0.014-20 wt.% Al. Experiments were performed up to 1073 K. Intermetallic compounds formed in the alloys were characterized by X-ray diffraction. Partial and excess thermodynamic functions of U in the studied alloys were calculated.
Thermodynamic properties of uranium in gallium-aluminium based alloys
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Volkovich, V. A.; Maltsev, D. S.; Yamshchikov, L. F.; Chukin, A. V.; Smolenski, V. V.; Novoselova, A. V.; Osipenko, A. G.
Activity, activity coefficients and solubility of uranium was determined in gallium-aluminium alloys containing 1.6 (eutectic), 5 and 20 wt.% aluminium. Additionally, activity of uranium was determined in aluminium and Ga-Al alloys containing 0.014-20 wt.% Al. Experiments were performed up to 1073 K. Intermetallic compounds formed in the alloys were characterized by X-ray diffraction. Partial and excess thermodynamic functions of U in the studied alloys were calculated.
Sol-gel hybrid films based on organosilane and montmorillonite for corrosion inhibition of AA2024.
Dalmoro, V; dos Santos, J H Z; Armelin, E; Alemán, C; Azambuja, D S
The present work reports the production of films on AA2024-T3 composed of vinyltrimethoxysilane (VTMS)/tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS) with incorporation of montmorillonite (sodium montmorillonite and montmorillonite modified with quaternary ammonium salt, abbreviated Na and 30B, respectively), generated by the sol-gel process. According to FT-IR analyses the incorporation of montmorillonite does not affect silica network. Electrochemical characterization was performed by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurement in 0.05 mol L(-1) NaCl solution. Results indicate that montmorillonite incorporation improves the corrosion protection compared to the non-modified system. Scanning electron microscopy micrographs reveal that high concentrations of montmorillonite provide agglomerations on the metallic surface, which is in detriment of the anticorrosive performance. The VTMS/TEOS/30B films with the lowest concentration (22 mg L(-1)) of embedded clay provide the highest corrosion protection. PMID:24863798
Precipitate strengthening of nanostructured aluminium alloy.
Wawer, Kinga; Lewandowska, Malgorzata; Kurzydlowski, Krzysztof J
Grain boundaries and precipitates are the major microstructural features influencing the mechanical properties of metals and alloys. Refinement of the grain size to the nanometre scale brings about a significant increase in the mechanical strength of the materials because of the increased number of grain boundaries which act as obstacles to sliding dislocations. A similar effect is obtained if nanoscale precipitates are uniformly distributed in coarse grained matrix. The development of nanograin sized alloys raises the important question of whether or not these two mechanisms are "additive" and precipitate strengthening is effective in nanostructured materials. In the reported work, hydrostatic extrusion (HE) was used to obtain nanostructured 7475 aluminium alloy. Nanosized precipitates were obtained by post-HE annealing. It was found that such annealing at the low temperatures (100 degrees C) results in a significant increase in the microhardness (HV0.2) and strength of the nanostructured 7475 aluminium alloy. These results are discussed in terms of the interplay between the precipitation and deformation of nanocrystalline metals. PMID:23421286
Deviatoric response of the aluminium alloy, 5083
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Appleby-Thomas, Gareth; Hazell, Paul; Millett, Jeremy; Bourne, Neil
Aluminium alloys such as 5083 are established light weight armour materials. As such, the shock response of these materials is of great importance. The shear strength of a material under shock loading provides an insight into its ballistic performance. In this investigation embedded manganin stress gauges have been employed to measure both the longitudinal and lateral components of stress during plate impact experiments over a range of impact stresses. In turn, these results were used to determine the shear strength and to investigate the time dependence of lateral stress behind the shock front to give an indication of material response.
Melt spun aluminium alloys for moulding optics
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Gubbels, G.; Tegelaers, L.; Senden, R.
Melt spinning is a rapid quenching process that makes it possible to create materials with a very fine microstructure. Due to this very fine microstructure the melt spinning process is an enabler for diamond turning optics and moulds without the need of post-polishing. Using diamond turning of melt spun aluminium one can achieve <=2 nm Rq surface roughness. Application areas are imaging and projection optics, mirrors, moulds for contact lenses and spectacles. One of the alloys that RSP produces is RSA-905. This alloy has a solid track record as a better and cheaper concept in the application of moulds for optical components such as contact lenses. The RSA-905 is a dispersion hardened amorphous-like alloy that keeps its properties when exposed to elevated temperatures (up to 380°C). This gives the material unique features for optics moulding applications. RSA-905 moulds are cheaper and better than traditional mould concepts such as copper or brass with or without NiP plating. In addition logistics can be simplified significantly: from typical weeks-months into days-week. Lifetime is typically in the range of 100.000 - 200.000 shots. For high volume production typically ranging from several 100.000 - several 1.000.000 shots, NiP plated steel moulds are typically used. By using an appropriate optical coating concept RSA-905 can be upgraded to a competitive alternative to steel in terms of price, performance and logistics. This paper presents some recent developments for improved mould performance of such concept. Hardness, wear resistance and adhesion are topics of interest and they can be applied by special coatings such as diamond-like carbon (DLC) and chromium nitride (CrN). These coatings make the aluminium alloy suitable for moulding mass production of small as well as larger optics, such as spectacle lenses.
Lamb wave ultrasonic evaluation of welded AA2024 specimens at tensile static and fatigue testing
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Burkov, M. V.; Byakov, A. V.; Shah, R. T.; Lyubutin, P. S.; Panin, S. V.
The paper deals with the investigation of Lamb waves ultrasonic testing technique applied for evaluation of different stress-strain and damaged state of aluminum specimens at static and fatigue loading in order to develop a Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) approach. The experimental results of tensile testing of AA2024T3 specimens with welded joints are presented. Piezoelectric transducers used as actuators and sensors were adhesively bonded to the specimen's surface using two component epoxy. The set of static and cyclic tensile tests with two frequencies of acoustic testing (50 kHz and 335 kHz) were performed. The recorded signals were processed to calculate the maximum envelope in order to evaluate the changes of the stress-strain state of the specimen and its microstructure during static tension. The registered data are analyzed and discussed in terms of signal attenuation due to the formation of fatigue defects during cyclic loading. Understanding the relations between acoustic signal features and fatigue damages will provide us the ability to determine the damage state of the structure and its residual lifetime in order to design a robust SHM system.
Aluminium alloys in municipal solid waste incineration bottom ash.
Hu, Yanjun; Rem, Peter
With the increasing growth of incineration of household waste, more and more aluminium is retained in municipal solid waste incinerator bottom ash. Therefore recycling of aluminium from bottom ash becomes increasingly important. Previous research suggests that aluminium from different sources is found in different size fractions resulting in different recycling rates. The purpose of this study was to develop analytical and sampling techniques to measure the particle size distribution of individual alloys in bottom ash. In particular, cast aluminium alloys were investigated. Based on the particle size distribution it was computed how well these alloys were recovered in a typical state-of-the-art treatment plant. Assessment of the cast alloy distribution was carried out by wet physical separation processes, as well as chemical methods, X-ray fluorescence analysis and electron microprobe analysis. The results from laboratory analyses showed that cast alloys tend to concentrate in the coarser fractions and therefore are better recovered in bottom ash treatment plants. PMID:19423581
Modelling of micro- and macrosegregation for industrial multicomponent aluminium alloys
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Ellingsen, K.; Mortensen, D.; M'Hamdi, M.
Realistic predictions of macrosegregation formation during casting of aluminium alloys requires an accurate modeling of solute microsegregation accounting for multicomponent phase diagrams and secondary phase formation. In the present work, the stand alone Alstruc model, a microsegregation model for industrial multicomponent aluminium alloys, is coupled with the continuum model ALSIM which calculates the macroscopic transport of mass, enthalpy, momentum, and solutes as well as stresses and deformation during solidification of aluminium. Alstruc deals with multicomponent alloys accounting for temperature dependent partition coefficients, liquidus slopes and the precipitation of secondary phases. The challenge associated with computation of microsegregation for multicomponent alloys is solved in Alstruc by approximating the phase diagram data by simple, analytical expressions which allows for a CPU-time efficient coupling with the macroscopic transport model. In the present work, the coupled model has been applied in a study of macrosegregation including thermal and solutal convection, solidification shrinkage and surface exudation on an industrial DC-cast billet.
Electrodeposition of aluminium, aluminium/magnesium alloys, and magnesium from organometallic electrolytes
Mayer, A.
The electrodeposition of aluminum, magnesium, and the combination of these metals from nonaqueous media is discussed. Plating baths for depositing Al/Mg alloys or for plating essentially pure Mg were developed. These solutions contain alkali meal fluoride or quaternary ammonium halide/aluminium alkyl complexes and dialkyl magnesium dissolved in aromatic hydrocarbons. Alloy deposits over the whole composition range can be plated from these solutions by varying the relative quantities of the aluminium and magnesium alkyls and by changing the bath-operating parameters. 18 refs., 4 figs.
Influence of grain boundaries misorientation angle on intergranular corrosion in 2024-T3 aluminium
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Bałkowiec, A.; Michalski, J.; Matysiak, H.; Kurzydlowski, K. J.
The special attention has been paid to the influence of misorientation angle of a random grain boundary (GB) on susceptibility to intergranular attack. The detailed observations of the microstructure of the intergranular corrosion (IGC) in 2024-T3 aluminium alloy (AA2024-T3) subjected to galvanic corrosion tests in two different solutions containing chloride ions (0.1 M and 0.5 M NaCl) were carried out using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The Electron Backscattered Diffraction (EBSD) technique was used to determine the grain boundary character distribution (GBCD) in the initial sample and a GBCD of corroded grain boundaries on a sample subjected to the corrosion test. The results are discussed in terms of the influence of the misorientation angle on the susceptibility of the grain boundaries to corrosion.
Recycling of aluminium scrap for secondary Al-Si alloys.
Velasco, Eulogio; Nino, Jose
An increasing amount of recycled aluminium is going into the production of aluminium alloy used for automotive applications. In these applications, it is necessary to control and remove alloy impurities and inclusions. Cleaning and fluxing processes are widely used during processing of the alloys for removal of inclusions, hydrogen and excess of magnesium. These processes use salt fluxes based in the system NaCl-KCl, injection of chlorine or mixture of chlorine with an inert gas. The new systems include a graphite wand and a circulation device to force convection in the melt and permit the bubbling and dispersion of reactive and cleaning agents. This paper discusses the recycling of aluminium alloys in rotary and reverberatory industrial furnaces. It focuses on the removal of magnesium during the melting process. In rotary furnaces, the magnesium lost is mainly due to the oxidation process at high temperatures. The magnesium removal is carried out by the reaction between chlorine and magnesium, with its efficiency associated to kinetic factors such as concentration of magnesium, mixing, and temperature. These factors are also related to emissions generated during the demagging process. Improvements in the metallic yield can be reached in rotary furnaces if the process starts with a proper salt, with limits of addition, and avoiding long holding times. To improve throughput in reverberatories, start the charging with high magnesium content material and inject chlorine gas if the molten metal is at the right temperature. Removal of magnesium through modern technologies can be efficiently performed to prevent environmental problems. PMID:20837560
Evolution of the corrosion process of AA 2024-T3 in an alkaline NaCl solution with sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate and lanthanum chloride inhibitors
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Zhou, Biner; Wang, Yishan; Zuo, Yu
The evolution of the corrosion process of AA 2024-T3 in 0.58 g L-1 NaCl solution (pH 10) with sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate (SDBS) and lanthanum chloride inhibitors was studied with electrochemical and surface analysis methods. With the addition of the compounded LaCl3 and SDBS inhibitors, in the early stage the polarization behavior of AA 2024-T3 changed from active corrosion to passivation, and both the general corrosion and pitting corrosion were inhibited. However, with the immersion time extended, the passive behavior gradually disappeared and pitting happened at the Cu-rich phases. After 24 h immersion, the compounded inhibitors still showed good inhibition for general corrosion, but the polarization curve again presented the characteristic similar to active polarization. The compounded inhibitors also inhibited the pitting corrosion to some extent. The acting mechanism of the inhibitors SDBS and La3Cl on the corrosion process of AA 2024-T3 in the test solution was discussed.
Carbon treated commercial aluminium alloys as anodes for aluminium-air batteries in sodium chloride electrolyte
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Pino, M.; Herranz, D.; Chacón, J.; Fatás, E.; Ocón, P.
An easy treatment based in carbon layer deposition into aluminium alloys is presented to enhance the performance of Al-air primary batteries with neutral pH electrolyte. The jellification of aluminate in the anode surface is described and avoided by the carbon covering. Treated commercial Al alloys namely Al1085 and Al7475 are tested as anodes achieving specific capacities above 1.2 Ah g-1vs 0.5 Ah g-1 without carbon covering. The influence of the binder proportion in the treatment as well as different carbonaceous materials, Carbon Black, Graphene and Pyrolytic Graphite are evaluated as candidates for the covering. Current densities of 1-10 mA cm-2 are measured and the influence of the alloy explored. A final battery design of 4 cells in series is presented for discharges with a voltage plateau of 2 V and 1 Wh g-1 energy density.
Optimization of FS Welding Parameters for Improving Mechanical Behavior of AA2024-T351 Joints Based on Taguchi Method
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Vidal, C.; Infante, V.
In the present study, the design of an experiment technique, the Taguchi method, has been used to optimize the friction stir welding (FSW) parameters for improving mechanical behavior of AA2024-T351 joints. The parameters considered were vertical downward forging force, tool travel speed, and probe length. An orthogonal array of L9 (34) was used; ANOVA analyses were carried out to identify the significant factors affecting tensile strength (Global Efficiency to Tensile Strength—GETS), bending strength (Global Efficiency to Bending—GEB), and hardness field. The percentage contribution of each parameter was also determined. As a result of the Taguchi analysis in this study, the probe length is the most significant parameter on GETS, and the tool travel speed is the most important parameter affecting both the GEB and the hardness field. An algebraic model for predicting the best mechanical performance, namely fatigue resistance, was developed and the optimal FSW combination was determined using this model. The results obtained were validated by conducting confirmation tests, the results of which verify the adequacy and effectiveness of this approach.
Diffusion bonding of aluminium alloy, 8090
Sunwoo, A. )
Ability to diffusion bond aluminum (Al) alloys, in particular superplastic aluminum alloys, will complete the technology-base that is strongly needed to enhance the use of superplastic forming (SPF) technology. Diffusion bonding (DB) is an attractive manufacturing option for applications where the preservation of the base metal microstructure and, in turn, mechanical properties is important in the bond area. As the technology moves from the laboratory to production, the DB process has to be production-feasible and cost-effective. At the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, the DB study of SPF Al alloys has been initiated. This paper describes the effect of surface chemistry on the DB properties of the Al alloy, 8090 (2.4Li-1.18Cu-0.57Mg-0.14Zr-Al). The integrity of the diffusion bonds was evaluated for both interlayered and bare surfaces. Two interlayer elements, copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn), were compared. Although the eutectic temperature of Al-Cu is 548 C, a thin Cu layer in contact with 8090 has been shown to lower its eutectic temperature to [approximately]521 C. In 8090, Cu is one of the primary alloying elements but has a limited solubility in Al at the bonding temperature. Zinc, on the other hand, forms a considerably lower eutectic (380 C) with Al and is highly soluble in Al. The diffusivity of Zn in Al is much faster than that of Cu, but Zn forms a more thermodynamically stable oxide. These subtle metallurgical differences will affect the transient liquid phase (TLP) formation at the interface, which will subsequently influence the bond quality.
Microstructure of AA 2024 fixed joints formed by friction stir welding
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Eliseev, A. A.; Kalashnikova, T. A.; Tarasov, S. Yu.; Rubtsov, V. E.; Fortuna, S. V.; Kolubaev, E. A.
Friction stir welded butt joints on 2024T3 alloy have been obtained using different process parameters. The microstructures of all the weld joint zones have been examined and such structural parameters as grain size, particle size and volume content of particles have been determined in order to find correlations with the microhardness of the corresponding zones of the weld.
Effect of SMAT on microstructural and mechanical properties of AA2024
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Tadge, Prashant; Sasikumar, C.
In recent days surface mechanical attrition treatment (SMAT) had attracted the attention of researchers as it produces a nano-crystalline surface with improved mechanical properties. In the present study Al-4%Cu alloy used in automobile and aerospace application is subjected to surface mechanical attrition treatment using steel shots. The microstructural changes introduced on the surface of the Al alloy was investigated using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The secondary phases formed during the SMAT process is been investigated using EDX and XRD analysis. The effects of SMAT on the mechanical properties were analyzed using a tensile testing. The SMA treatment had resulted in severe plastic deformation of the surface, thereby yielded a nanocrystalline surface with a grain size of 30 to 50 nm. Further, it is also found that the SMAT produced ultra nanocrystalline particles of Cu2Al dispersed uniformly into α-Al matrix. These microstructural changes had resulted in considerable change in the mechanical properties of these alloys. The tensile strength of these alloys had increased from ˜212 MPa to 303 MPa while the fracture toughness increased up to 28% in 10 minutes of SMAT.
Aluminium. II - A review of deformation properties of high purity aluminium and dilute aluminium alloys.
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Reed, R. P.
The elastic and plastic deformation behavior of high-purity aluminum and of dilute aluminum alloys is reviewed. Reliable property data, including elastic moduli, elastic coefficients, tensile, creep, fatigue, hardness, and impact are presented. Single crystal tensile results are discussed. Rather comprehensive reference lists, containing publications of the past 20 years, are included for each of the above categories. Defect structures and mechanisms responsible for mechanical behavior are presented. Strengthening techniques (alloys, cold work, irradiation, quenching, composites) and recovery are briefly reviewed.
Mechanical Properties of Particulate Reinforced Aluminium Alloy Matrix Composite
Sayuti, M.; Sulaiman, S.; Baharudin, B. T. H. T.; Arifin, M. K. A.; Suraya, S.; Vijayaram, T. R.
This paper discusses the mechanical properties of Titanium Carbide (TiC) particulate reinforced aluminium-silicon alloy matrix composite. TiC particulate reinforced LM6 alloy matrix composites were fabricated by carbon dioxide sand molding process with different particulate weight fraction. Tensile strength, hardness and microstructure studies were conducted to determine the maximum load, tensile strength, modulus of elasticity and fracture surface analysis have been performed to characterize the morphological aspects of the test samples after tensile testing. Hardness values are measured for the TiC reinforced LM6 alloy composites and it has been found that it gradually increases with increased addition of the reinforcement phase. The tensile strength of the composites increased with the increase percentage of TiC particulate.
Compressive strength of the mineral reinforced aluminium alloy composite
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Arora, Rama; Sharma, Anju; Kumar, Suresh; Singh, Gurmel; Pandey, O. P.
This paper presents the results of quasi-static compressive strength of aluminium alloy reinforced with different concentration of rutile mineral particles. The reinforced material shows increase in compressive strength with 5wt% rutile concentration as compared to the base alloy. This increase in compressive strength of composite is attributed to direct strengthening due to transfer of load from lower stiffness matrix (LM13 alloy) to higher stiffness reinforcement (rutile particles). Indirect strengthening mechanisms like increase in dislocation density at the matrix-reinforcement interface, grain size refinement of the matrix and dispersion strengthening are also the contributing factors. The decrease in compressive strength of composite with the increased concentration of rutile concentration beyond 5 wt.% can be attributed to the increase in dislocation density due to the void formation at the matrix-reinforcement interface.
Nanostructural hierarchy increases the strength of aluminium alloys.
Liddicoat, Peter V; Liao, Xiao-Zhou; Zhao, Yonghao; Zhu, Yuntian; Murashkin, Maxim Y; Lavernia, Enrique J; Valiev, Ruslan Z; Ringer, Simon P
Increasing the strength of metallic alloys while maintaining formability is an interesting challenge for enabling new generations of lightweight structures and technologies. In this paper, we engineer aluminium alloys to contain a hierarchy of nanostructures and possess mechanical properties that expand known performance boundaries-an aerospace-grade 7075 alloy exhibits a yield strength and uniform elongation approaching 1 GPa and 5%, respectively. The nanostructural architecture was observed using novel high-resolution microscopy techniques and comprises a solid solution, free of precipitation, featuring (i) a high density of dislocations, (ii) subnanometre intragranular solute clusters, (iii) two geometries of nanometre-scale intergranular solute structures and (iv) grain sizes tens of nanometres in diameter. Our results demonstrate that this novel architecture offers a design pathway towards a new generation of super-strong materials with new regimes of property-performance space. PMID:20842199
Deviatoric Response of AN Armour-Grade Aluminium Alloy
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Appleby-Thomas, G. J.; Hazell, P. J.; Millett, J.; Bourne, N. K.
Aluminium alloys such as 5083 H32 are established light-weight armour materials. As such, the shock response of these materials is of great importance. The shear strength of a material under shock loading provides an insight into its ballistic performance. In this investigation embedded manganin stress gauges have been employed to measure both the longitudinal and lateral components of stress during plate-impact experiments over a range of impact stresses. In turn, these results were used to determine the shear strength and to investigate the time dependence of lateral stress behind the shock front to give an indication of material response.
Determination of phosphorus in hypereutectic aluminium-silicon alloys.
Mukai, K
A reproducible method is described for determination of small amounts of phosphorus (from 0.0005% to 0.02%) in hypereutectic aluminium-silicon complex alloys. The method permits the separate determination of phosphorus in acid-soluble and acid-insoluble fractions. Phosphomolybdate is extracted with n-butanol-chloroform solvent mixture and back-extracted with a btannous chloride reducing solution. The phosphorus content of a sample cut into small pieces decreases during storage; loss of phosphorus is negligible on acid dissolution under oxidizing conditions. PMID:18961077
Modelling work hardening of aluminium alloys containing dispersoids
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Zhao, Qinglong; Holmedal, Bjørn
The influence of dispersoids on tensile deformation behaviour has been studied by comparison of aluminium alloys containing different dispersoid densities. It was found that a fine dispersion of non-shearable particles led to an increased work hardening at the initial plastic deformation, but the effect was opposite at higher strains. The reason has been attributed to the generation of geometrically necessary dislocations (GNDs). A new model has been proposed for the evolution of GNDs based on a balance of storage and dynamic recovery of GNDs. The model predicts a rapid saturation of GNDs and a reduced work hardening at small strains, consistent with the experimental results.
The fracture of boron fibre-reinforced 6061 aluminium alloy
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Wright, M. A.; Welch, D.; Jollay, J.
The fracture of 6061 aluminium alloy reinforced with unidirectional and cross-plied 0/90 deg, 0/90/+ or - 45 deg boron fibres has been investigated. The results have been described in terms of a critical stress intensity, K(Q). Critical stress intensity factors were obtained by substituting the failure stress and the initial crack length into the appropriate expression for K(Q). Values were obtained that depended on the dimensions of the specimens. It was therefore concluded that, for the size of specimen tested, the values of K(Q) did not reflect any basic materials property.
High rate constitutive modeling of aluminium alloy tube
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Salisbury, C. P.; Worswick, M. J.; Mayer, R.
As the need for fuel efficient automobiles increases, car designers are investigating light-weight materials for automotive bodies that will reduce the overall automobile weight. Aluminium alloy tube is a desirable material to use in automotive bodies due to its light weight. However, aluminium suffers from lower formability than steel and its energy absorption ability in a crash event after a forming operation is largely unknown. As part of a larger study on the relationship between crashworthiness and forming processes, constitutive models for 3mm AA5754 aluminium tube were developed. A nominal strain rate of 100/s is often used to characterize overall automobile crash events, whereas strain rates on the order of 1000/s can occur locally. Therefore, tests were performed at quasi-static rates using an Instron test fixture and at strain rates of 500/s to 1500/s using a tensile split Hopkinson bar. High rate testing was then conducted at rates of 500/s, 1000/s and 1500/s at 21circC, 150circC and 300circC. The generated data was then used to determine the constitutive parameters for the Johnson-Cook and Zerilli-Armstrong material models.
Mechanism of corrosion inhibition of AA2024 by rare-earth compounds.
Yasakau, Kiryl A; Zheludkevich, Mikhail L; Lamaka, Sviatlana V; Ferreira, Mario G S
The mechanism of corrosion protection of the widely used 2024-T3 aluminum alloy by cerium and lanthanum inhibitors in chloride media is described in detail in the present work. The corrosion process was investigated by means of scanning Kelvin probe force microscopy (SKPFM), in situ atomic force microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive spectroscopy. Employment of the high-resolution and in situ techniques results in a deep understanding of the details of the physical chemistry and mechanisms of the corrosion processes. The applicability of the SKPFM for mechanistic analysis of the effect of different corrosion inhibitors is demonstrated for the first time. The inhibitors under study show sufficient hindering of the localized corrosion processes especially in the case of pitting formation located around the intermetallic S-phase particles. The main role of Ce(3+) and La(3+) in the corrosion protection is formation of hydroxide deposits on S-phase inclusions buffering the local increase of pH, which is responsible for the acceleration of the intermetallics dealloying. The formed hydroxide precipitates can also act as a diffusion barrier hindering the corrosion processes in active zones. Cerium nitrate exhibits higher inhibition efficiency in comparison with lanthanum nitrate. The higher effect in the case of cerium is obtained due to lower solubility of the respective hydroxide. A detailed mechanism of the corrosion process and its inhibition is proposed based on thermodynamic analysis. PMID:16539491
Frictional conditions between alloy AA6060 aluminium and tool steel
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Widerøe, Fredrik; Welo, Torgeir
The frictional conditions in the new process of screw extrusion of aluminium have been investigated. The contact behaviour between the aluminum alloy and the tool steel in the extruder is vital for understanding the extrusion process. Using a compressive-rotational method for frictional measurements the conditions for unlubricated sticking friction between aluminum alloy AA6060 and tool steel at different combinations of temperatures and pressures have been investigated. In this method the samples in the form of disks are put under hydrostatic pressure while simultaneously being rotated at one end. Pins made from contrast material have been inserted into the samples to measure the deformation introduced. This approach along with 3D simulations form a method for determining the frictional conditions. The paper describes the test method and the results. It was found that the necessary pressure for sticking to occur between the aluminum AA6060 and the different parts of the extruder is heavily influenced by the temperature.
Fabrication of superhydrophobic aluminium alloy surface with excellent corrosion resistance by a facile and environment-friendly method
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Feng, Libang; Che, Yanhui; Liu, Yanhua; Qiang, Xiaohu; Wang, Yanping
This work develops a facile and environment-friendly method for preparing the superhydrophobic aluminium alloy surface with excellent corrosion resistance. The superhydrophobic aluminium alloy surface is fabricated by the boiling water treatment and stearic acid (STA) modification. Results show that the boiling water treatment endows the aluminium alloy surface with a porous and rough structure, while STA modification chemically grafts the long hydrophobic alkyl chains onto the aluminium alloy surface. Just grounded on the micro- and nano-scale hierarchical structure along with the hydrophobic chemical composition, the superhydrophobic aluminium alloy surface is endued the excellent corrosion resistance.
Formation and corrosion inhibition mechanisms of chromate conversion coatings on aluminum and AA2024-T3
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Zhang, Wenping
Chromate conversion coatings (CCCs) are applied to aluminum alloys to enhance their resistance to localized corrosion and to increase paint adhesion. However, chromate is toxic and suspected carcinogen. To develop environmentally friendly alternative coatings, a detailed and accurate understanding of CCC formation and breakdown is needed. Several studies on CCC formation and breakdown were conducted in this regard. A first set of experiments was aimed at studying CCC formation and breakdown on 25-element Al electrode arrays. Results from coating formation experiments show that the coating process occurs in two stages. The first stage is characterized by intense electrochemical activity on the array and last from 20 to 30 seconds. The second stage occurs under electrochemical quiescence and little measurable current flows among elements in the electrode array. Raman spectroscopy shows that the coating continues to adsorb Cr6+. Anodic polarization of conversion coated arrays in chloride solutions led to several important findings. First, it was found that pitting potential increases as coating time increases through both stage one and stage two coating formation. These results also show that changes in coating structure and chemistry occur during the electrochemically quiescent second stage of coating formation. Further analysis showed that pitting potentials were higher on electrode elements that were net cathodes during first stage CCC formation than on electrode elements that were net anodes. Results also showed that the supplemental ingredients, NaF and K3Fe(CN)6, are essential to CCC formation and contribute greatly to increasing the corrosion protection provided by the coating. A second set of experiments was aimed at characterizing the effect of aging on CCC structure and properties. CCCs are dynamic due to the fact that they continue to polymerize after they are removed from the coating bath. Using cathodic polarization experiments carried out in aerated
Thermoelectric power in low-density interstitial-free iron-aluminium alloys
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Rana, Radhakanta; Liu, Cheng
Thermoelectric power (TEP) studies on low-density interstitial-free iron-aluminium alloys reveal that the TEP decreases with increase in the aluminium content on account of the introduction of lattice dispersion centres. The TEP coefficients, determined from the Nordheim-Gorter law, for 6.8 and 8.1 wt.% aluminium additions to α-iron are found to be higher than values reported in previous literature for small aluminium additions. The grain size has a very weak effect on the TEP of these alloys.
Performance of commercial aluminium alloys as anodes in gelled electrolyte aluminium-air batteries
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Pino, M.; Chacón, J.; Fatás, E.; Ocón, P.
The evaluation of commercial aluminium alloys, namely, Al2024, Al7475 and Al1085, for Al-air batteries is performed. Pure Al cladded Al2024 and Al7475 are also evaluated. Current rates from 0.8 mA cm-2 to 8.6 mA cm-2 are measured in a gel Al-air cell composed of the commercial alloy sample, a commercial air-cathode and an easily synthesizable gelled alkaline electrolyte. The influence of the alloying elements and the addition to the electrolyte of ZnO and ZnCl2, as corrosion inhibitors is studied and analysed via EDX/SEM. Specific capacities of up to 426 mAh/g are obtained with notably flat potential discharges of 1.3-1.4 V. The competition between self-corrosion and oxidation reactions is also discussed, as well as the influence of the current applied on that process. Al7475 is determined to have the best behaviour as anode in Al-air primary batteries, and cladding process is found to be an extra protection against corrosion at low current discharges. Conversely, Al1085 provided worse results because of an unfavourable metallic composition.
The influence of alloy composition on residual stresses in heat treated aluminium alloys
Robinson, J.S.; Redington, W.
The as quenched properties of eight different heat treatable aluminium alloys are related to residual stress magnitudes with the objective being to establish if there is a relationship between the residual stress and the as quenched alloy hardness and strength. Near surface residual stresses were assessed with X-ray diffraction using both the established sin{sup 2}ψ method and the more recent cos α technique. Through thickness residual stresses were also characterised using neutron diffraction. The alloys were chosen to encompass a wide range of strengths. The low to medium strength alloys were 6060 and 6082, medium to high strength 2618A, 2014A, 7075, 7010 and two variants of 7449, while the very high strength alloy was the powder metallurgy alloy N707. To assess the as quenched strength, dynamic hardness and tensile properties were determined from samples tested immediately after quenching to minimise the influence of precipitation hardening by natural aging. In addition, hot hardness measurements were made in situ on samples cooled to simulate quench paths. Within the experimental constraints of the investigation, the distribution of residual stress through the thickness was found to follow the same pattern for all the alloys investigated, varying from tensile in the interior to surface compression. The influence of alloy strength was manifested as a change in the observed residual stress magnitudes, and surface residual stresses were found to vary linearly with as quenched hardness and strength. - Highlights: • As quenched aluminium alloys contain high magnitude residual stresses. • Surface is compressive balance by a tensile core. • As quenched surface residual stress is linear function of alloy strength. • In situ hot hardness demonstrates rapid change in intrinsic hardness during rapid cooling.
Mackay icosahedron explaining orientation relationship of dispersoids in aluminium alloys.
Muggerud, Astrid Marie F; Li, Yanjun; Holmestad, Randi; Andersen, Sigmund J
The orientation relations (ORs) of the cubic icosahedral quasicrystal approximant phase α-Al(Fe,Mn)Si have been studied after low temperature annealing of a 3xxx wrought aluminium alloy by transmission electron microscopy. From diffraction studies it was verified that the most commonly observed OR for the α-Al(Fe,Mn)Si dispersoids is [1\\bar 11]α // [1\\bar 11]Al, (5\\bar 2\\bar 7)α // (011)Al. This orientation could be explained by assuming that the internal Mackay icosahedron (MI) in the α-phase has a fixed orientation in relation to Al, similar to that of the icosahedral quasi-crystals existing in this alloy system. It is shown that mirroring of the normal-to-high-symmetry icosahedral directions of the MI explains the alternative orientations, which are therefore likely to be caused by twinning of the fixed MI. Only one exception was found, which was related to the Bergman icosahedron internal to the T-phase of the Al-Mg-Zn system. PMID:25274523
Experimental Study of the Forces Acting on the Tool in the Friction-Stir Welding of AA 2024 T3 Sheets
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Astarita, A.; Squillace, A.; Carrino, L.
In this paper, AA 2024 T3-rolled sheets were joined in butt joint configuration through the friction stir welding process. Different joints were carried out varying the principal process parameters (i.e., tool welding speed and tool rotational speed). The aim of this work was the study and the experimental characterization of the influence of the process parameters on the forces acting on the tool during the FSW process. Furthermore, it was studied the correlation between the forces and the grain size, in particular with the extension of the heat-affected zone. Forces acting along the axis parallel to the tool are actually greater than those acting along welding direction. All the recorded forces are strictly dependant on the process parameters adopted. No correlation has been found between the grain dimension within the weld bead and the recorded forces, while the greater the forces, the narrower the extension of the heat-affected zone.
Modelling of Local Necking and Fracture in Aluminium Alloys
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Achani, D.; Eriksson, M.; Hopperstad, O. S.; Lademo, O.-G.
Non-linear Finite Element simulations are extensively used in forming and crashworthiness studies of automotive components and structures in which fracture need to be controlled. For thin-walled ductile materials, the fracture-related phenomena that must be properly represented are thinning instability, ductile fracture and through-thickness shear instability. Proper representation of the fracture process relies on the accuracy of constitutive and fracture models and their parameters that need to be calibrated through well defined experiments. The present study focuses on local necking and fracture which is of high industrial importance, and uses a phenomenological criterion for modelling fracture in aluminium alloys. As an accurate description of plastic anisotropy is important, advanced phenomenological constitutive equations based on the yield criterion YLD2000/YLD2003 are used. Uniaxial tensile tests and disc compression tests are performed for identification of the constitutive model parameters. Ductile fracture is described by the Cockcroft-Latham fracture criterion and an in-plane shear tests is performed to identify the fracture parameter. The reason is that in a well designed in-plane shear test no thinning instability should occur and it thus gives more direct information about the phenomenon of ductile fracture. Numerical simulations have been performed using a user-defined material model implemented in the general-purpose non-linear FE code LS-DYNA. The applicability of the model is demonstrated by correlating the predicted and experimental response in the in-plane shear tests and additional plane strain tension tests.
Modelling of Local Necking and Fracture in Aluminium Alloys
Achani, D.; Eriksson, M.; Hopperstad, O. S.; Lademo, O.-G.
Non-linear Finite Element simulations are extensively used in forming and crashworthiness studies of automotive components and structures in which fracture need to be controlled. For thin-walled ductile materials, the fracture-related phenomena that must be properly represented are thinning instability, ductile fracture and through-thickness shear instability. Proper representation of the fracture process relies on the accuracy of constitutive and fracture models and their parameters that need to be calibrated through well defined experiments. The present study focuses on local necking and fracture which is of high industrial importance, and uses a phenomenological criterion for modelling fracture in aluminium alloys. As an accurate description of plastic anisotropy is important, advanced phenomenological constitutive equations based on the yield criterion YLD2000/YLD2003 are used. Uniaxial tensile tests and disc compression tests are performed for identification of the constitutive model parameters. Ductile fracture is described by the Cockcroft-Latham fracture criterion and an in-plane shear tests is performed to identify the fracture parameter. The reason is that in a well designed in-plane shear test no thinning instability should occur and it thus gives more direct information about the phenomenon of ductile fracture. Numerical simulations have been performed using a user-defined material model implemented in the general-purpose non-linear FE code LS-DYNA. The applicability of the model is demonstrated by correlating the predicted and experimental response in the in-plane shear tests and additional plane strain tension tests.
Spall fracture in aluminium alloy at high strain rates
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Joshi, K. D.; Rav, Amit; Sur, Amit; Kaushik, T. C.; Gupta, Satish C.
Spall fracture strength and dynamic yield strength has been measured in 8mm thick target plates of aluminium alloy Al2024-T4 at high strain rates generated in three plate impact experiments carried out at impact velocities of 180 m/s, 370 m/s and 560m/s, respectively, using single stage gas gun facility. In each experiment, the free surface velocity history of the Al2024-T4 sample plate measured employing velocity interferometer system for any reflector (VISAR) is used to determine the spall strength and dynamic yield strength of this material. The spall strength of 1.11 GPa, 1.16 GPa and 1.43 GPa, determined from measured free surface velocity history of sample material in three experiments performed at impact velocity of 180 m/s, 370 m/s and 560 m/s, respectively, are higher than the quasi static value of 0.469 GPa and display almost linearly increasing trend with increasing impact velocity or equivalently with increasing strain rates. The average strain rates just ahead of the spall fracture are determined to be 1.9×10 4/s, 2.0×104/s and 2.5×104/s, respectively. The dynamic yield strength determined in the three experiments range from 0.383 GPa to 0.407 GPa, which is higher than the quasi static value of 0.324GPa.
Application of thermoelectric potential measurements in chemical analysis-II Determination of aluminium in iron alloys.
Krajina, A; Dolezal, J
A method is proposed for the rapid determination of aluminium in iron alloys by means of thermoelectric potential measurement. An instrument has been modified, and a method devised for thermoelectro-analytical measurements. The thermoelectric potential of iron-germanium and iron-zinc alloys has been measured, and an attempt made at a theoretical explanation of the influence of alloying elements on the thermoelectric properties of transition metals. PMID:18960250
New developments on optimizing properties of high-Zn aluminium cast alloys
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Krajewski, W. K.; Buras, J.; Krajewski, P. K.; Greer, A. L.; Schumacher, P.; Haberl, K.
Foundry alloys with Al-based matrices have a wide range of uses in today's global economy and there is a high demand for castings of Al alloys, including Al-Zn alloys. In this paper, investigations on the grain refinement of high-Zn aluminium cast alloys are presented. Aluminium alloys with relatively high zinc content have a tendency to be coarse-grained, especially in the case of castings with low cooling rates such as are found in sand moulds. The coarse-grained structure degrades the plasticity, specifically the elongation. Therefore, for aluminium alloys of high (10-30 wt.%) zinc content, inoculation is attractive, aiming to break up the primary dendrites of the a-phase solid solution of zinc in aluminium. Such dendrites are the principal microstructural component in these alloys. On the other hand, a finer grain structure usually reduces the damping (e.g. as measured by attenuation of ultrasound) in these alloys. In the present investigations, a binary sand-cast Al-20 wt.% Zn alloy was inoculated with different additions of AlTi3C0.15 (TiCAl) and ZnTi-based master alloys. The sand-cast samples were subjected to mechanical-property measurements (tensile strength and elongation), image analysis to determine grain size, and measurements of the attenuation of 1 MHz ultrasound. It is found that both of the master alloys used cause significant refinement of the a-AlZn primary dendrites and change their morphology from linear-branched to semi-globular, increase the elongation by about 40%, and decrease the attenuation coefficient by about 25% in comparison with the initial alloy without inoculation.
Self-Pierce Riveting of Three Aluminium Alloy and Mild Steel Sheets
Mori, K.; Abe, Y.; Sakai, S.; Kato, T.
Three aluminium alloy and steel sheets were joined with a self-piercing rivet. Self-pierce riveting has the function of joining steel and aluminium alloys having very different melting points due to plastic joining. The requisites for joining the three sheets are the driving of the rivet leg through the middle sheet, the flaring of the rivet leg in the lower sheet and the prevention of the fracture of the lower sheet. The joinability for various combinations of the three sheets was determined. When the rivet leg is small, no driving through the middle sheet occurs, the lower sheet ruptures for a large rivet leg. In addition, 980 MPa high strength steel, mild steel and aluminium alloy sheets were joined by the self-pierce riveting.
Image analysis of atmospheric corrosion of field exposure high strength aluminium alloys
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Tao, Lei; Song, Shizhe; Zhang, Xiaoyun; Zhang, Zheng; Lu, Feng
The corrosion morphology image acquisition system which can be used in the field was established. In Beijing atmospheric corrosion exposure station, the image acquisition system was used to capture the early stage corrosion morphology of five types of high strength aluminium alloy specimens. After the denoise treatment, wavelet-based image analysis method was applied to decompose the improved images and energies of sub-images were extracted as character information. Based on the variation of image energy values, the corrosion degree of aluminium alloy specimens was qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed. The conclusion was basically identical with the result based on the corrosion weight loss. This method is supposed to be effective to analysis and quantify the corrosion damage from image of field exposure aluminium alloy specimens.
Silica mesoporous thin films as containers for benzotriazole for corrosion protection of 2024 aluminium alloys
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Recloux, Isaline; Mouanga, Maixent; Druart, Marie-Eve; Paint, Yoann; Olivier, Marie-Georges
This work contributes to the development of a new environmentally friendly alternative pretreatment for 2024 aluminium alloys to replace hexavalent chromium based conversion layers in the aeronautical field. A silica mesoporous thin film, synthesized through the evaporation induced self-assembly process, was doped with benzotriazole to obtain active corrosion protection. Inhibitor loading contents were correlated with pore characteristics. The release kinetics was studied as function of pH. The application of the doped mesoporous film on 2024 aluminium alloy revealed a slowing down of corrosion processes, demonstrating its potential as an active inhibitor storage layer.
Predicting the thermal conductivity of aluminium alloys in the cryogenic to room temperature range
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Woodcraft, Adam L.
Aluminium alloys are being used increasingly in cryogenic systems. However, cryogenic thermal conductivity measurements have been made on only a few of the many types in general use. This paper describes a method of predicting the thermal conductivity of any aluminium alloy between the superconducting transition temperature (approximately 1 K) and room temperature, based on a measurement of the thermal conductivity or electrical resistivity at a single temperature. Where predictions are based on low temperature measurements (approximately 4 K and below), the accuracy is generally better than 10%. Useful predictions can also be made from room temperature measurements for most alloys, but with reduced accuracy. This method permits aluminium alloys to be used in situations where the thermal conductivity is important without having to make (or find) direct measurements over the entire temperature range of interest. There is therefore greater scope to choose alloys based on mechanical properties and availability, rather than on whether cryogenic thermal conductivity measurements have been made. Recommended thermal conductivity values are presented for aluminium 6082 (based on a new measurement), and for 1000 series, and types 2014, 2024, 2219, 3003, 5052, 5083, 5086, 5154, 6061, 6063, 6082, 7039 and 7075 (based on low temperature measurements in the literature).
Recovery of actinides from actinide-aluminium alloys by chlorination: Part II
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Souček, P.; Cassayre, L.; Eloirdi, R.; Malmbeck, R.; Meier, R.; Nourry, C.; Claux, B.; Glatz, J.-P.
A chlorination route is being investigated for recovery of actinides from actinide-aluminium alloys, which originate from pyrochemical recovery of actinides from spent metallic nuclear fuel by electrochemical methods in molten LiCl-KCl. In the present work, the most important steps of this route were experimentally tested using U-Pu-Al alloy prepared by electrodeposition of U and Pu on solid aluminium plate electrodes. The investigated processes were vacuum distillation for removal of the salt adhered on the electrode, chlorination of the alloy by chlorine gas and sublimation of the AlCl3 formed. The processes parameters were set on the base of a previous thermochemical study and an experimental work using pure UAl3 alloy. The present experimental results indicated high efficiency of salt distillation and chlorination steps, while the sublimation step should be further optimised.
Steam assisted oxide growth on aluminium alloys using oxidative chemistries: Part II corrosion performance
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Din, Rameez Ud; Jellesen, Morten Stendahl; Ambat, Rajan
Surface treatment of aluminium alloys using steam with oxidative chemistries, namely KMnO4 and HNO3 resulted in accelerated growth of oxide on aluminium alloys. Detailed investigation of the corrosion performance of the treated surfaces was carried out using potentiodynamic polarisation and standard industrial test methods such as acetic acid salt spray (AASS) and filiform corrosion on commercial AA6060 alloy. Barrier properties of the film including adhesion were evaluated using tape test under wet and dry conditions. Electrochemical results showed reduced cathodic and anodic activity, while the protection provided by steam treatment with HNO3 was a function of the concentration of NO3- ions. The coating generated by inclusion of KMnO4 showed highest resistance to filiform corrosion. Overall, the performance of the steam treated surfaces under filiform corrosion and AASS test was a result of the local coverage of the alloy microstructure resulting from steam containing with KMnO4 and HNO3.
Evaluation Of Four Welding Arc Processes Applied To 6061 Aluminium Alloy
Benoit, A.; Paillard, P.; Baudin, T.; Jobez, S.; Castagne, J.-F.
At a time when greenhouse gas emissions must be reduced, the use of the aluminium alloys is expanding, in particular in the transportation industry. In order to extend the possibilities of aluminium assembly design, new Metal Inert Gas (MIG) welding processes have been conceived. They work at lower temperatures than usual arc processes (classic MIG or Tungsten Inert Gas). This study compares four arc welding processes, applied to the 6061 aluminium alloy. These four weld processes have been studied through the metallurgical analysis of the weld beads. Metallography, micro-hardness testings, X Ray radiography have been carried out on the produced weld beads. The processes are classified according to the quality of the beads like geometry of beads, size of the heat affected zone and presence of defects.
Effect of Surface Preparation on the Microstructure, Adhesion, and Tensile Properties of Cold-Sprayed Aluminum Coatings on AA2024 Substrates
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Sharma, M. M.; Eden, T. J.; Golesich, B. T.
Commercially pure aluminum coatings (CP-Al) were applied to AA 2024-T351 substrates utilizing the cold spray process using different surface preparation methods and carrier gases; the resulting microstructures and mechanical properties were investigated. Substrate preparation methods were examined to understand the effect of substrate roughness on coating properties, to minimize embedded grit, and to identify the surface preparation method that yielded the best combination of coating properties. Three substrate roughing preparations, glass bead, SiC grit, and alumina grit blast, were examined while utilizing both helium and nitrogen as carrier gases in the cold spray process. Coatings that were oxide free, possessing densities greater than 99% were achieved, with the mean coating porosity ranging 0.1-0.5%. The highest mean adhesion strength was 42 MPa for the nitrogen gas and 20 MPa for the helium gas, both using glass bead surface preparation. For the nitrogen process gas samples, the surface preparation methods that produced high pull strengths correlated to bend test specimens that showed no signs of cracking on surfaces or edges. The overall best combination of mechanical property results was achieved with coatings prepared by glass bead surface roughening using nitrogen as a carrier gas.
Property enhancement by grain refinement of zinc-aluminium foundry alloys
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Krajewski, W. K.; Greer, A. L.; Piwowarski, G.; Krajewski, P. K.
Development of cast alloys with good mechanical properties and involving less energy consumption during their melting is one of the key demands of today's industry. Zinc foundry alloys of high and medium Al content, i.e. Zn-(15-30) wt.% Al and Zn-(8-12) wt.% Al, can satisfy these requirements. The present paper summarizes the work [1-9] on improving properties of sand-cast ZnAl10 (Zn-10 wt.% Al) and ZnAl25 (Zn-25 wt. % Al) alloys by melt inoculation. Special attention was devoted to improving ductility, whilst preserving high damping properties at the same time. The composition and structural modification of medium- and high-aluminium zinc alloys influence their strength, tribological properties and structural stability. In a series of studies, Zn - (10-12) wt. % Al and Zn - (25-26) wt.% Al - (1-2.5) wt.% Cu alloys have been doped with different levels of added Ti. The melted alloys were inoculated with ZnTi-based refiners and it was observed that the dendritic structure is significantly finer already after addition of 50 - 100 ppm Ti to the melted alloys. The alloy's structure and mechanical properties have been studied using: SEM (scanning electron microscopy), LM (light microscopy), dilatometry, pin-on-disc wear, and tensile strength measurements. Grain refinement leads to significant improvement of ductility in the binary high-aluminium Zn-(25-27) Al alloys while in the medium-aluminium alloys the effect is rather weak. In the ternary alloys Zn-26Al-Cu, replacing a part of Cu with Ti allows dimensional changes to be reduced while preserving good tribological properties. Furthermore, the high initial damping properties were nearly entirely preserved after inoculation. The results obtained allow us to characterize grain refinement of the examined high-aluminium zinc alloys as a promising process leading to the improvement of their properties. At the same time, using low melting ZnTi-based master alloys makes it possible to avoid the excessive melt overheating
Recovery of aluminium, nickel-copper alloys and salts from spent fluorescent lamps
Rabah, Mahmoud A
This study explores a combined pyro-hydrometallurgical method to recover pure aluminium, nickel-copper alloy(s), and some valuable salts from spent fluorescent lamps (SFLs). It also examines the safe recycling of clean glass tubes for the fluorescent lamp industry. Spent lamps were decapped under water containing 35% acetone to achieve safe capture of mercury vapour. Cleaned glass tubes, if broken, were cut using a rotating diamond disc to a standard shorter length. Aluminium and copper-nickel alloys in the separated metallic parts were recovered using suitable flux to decrease metal losses going to slag. Operation variables affecting the quality of the products and the extent of recovery with the suggested method were investigated. Results revealed that total loss in the glass tube recycling operation was 2% of the SFLs. Pure aluminium meeting standard specification DIN 1712 was recovered by melting at 800 deg. C under sodium chloride/carbon flux for 20 min. Standard nickel-copper alloys with less than 0.1% tin were prepared by melting at 1250 deg. C using a sodium borate/carbon flux. De-tinning of the molten nickel-copper alloy was carried out using oxygen gas. Tin in the slag as oxide was recovered by reduction using carbon or hydrogen gas at 650-700 deg. C. Different valuable chloride salts were also obtained in good quality. Further research is recommended on the thermodynamics of nickel-copper recovery, yttrium and europium recovery, and process economics.
Steam assisted oxide growth on aluminium alloys using oxidative chemistries: Part I Microstructural investigation
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Din, Rameez Ud; Piotrowska, Kamila; Gudla, Visweswara Chakravarthy; Jellesen, Morten Stendahl; Ambat, Rajan
The surface treatment of aluminium alloys under steam containing KMnO4 and HNO3 resulted in the formation of an oxide layer having a thickness of up to 825 nm. The use of KMnO4 and HNO3 in the steam resulted in incorporation of the respective chemical species into the oxide layer. Steam treatment with solution containing HNO3 caused dissolution of Cu and Si from the intermetallic particles in the aluminium substrate. The growth rate of oxide layer was observed to be a function of MnO4- and NO3- ions present in the aqueous solution. The NO3- ions exhibit higher affinity towards the intermetallic particles resulting in poor coverage by the steam generated oxide layer compared to the coating formed using MnO4- ions. Further, increase in the concentration of NO3- ions in the solution retards precipitation of the steam generated aluminium hydroxide layer.
Electrodeposition of iron and iron-aluminium alloys in an ionic liquid and their magnetic properties.
Giridhar, P; Weidenfeller, B; El Abedin, S Zein; Endres, F
In this work we show that nanocrystalline iron and iron-aluminium alloys can be electrodeposited from the ionic liquid 1-butyl-1-methylpyrrolidinium trifluoromethylsulfonate, [Py1,4]TfO, at 100 °C. The study comprises CV, SEM, XRD, and magnetic measurements. Two different sources of iron(ii) species, Fe(TfO)2 and FeCl2, were used for the electrodeposition of iron in [Py1,4]TfO. Cyclic voltammetry was employed to evaluate the electrochemical behavior of FeCl2, Fe(TfO)2, and (FeCl2 + AlCl3) in the employed ionic liquid. Thick iron deposits were obtained from FeCl2/[Py1,4]TfO at 100 °C. Electrodeposition of iron-aluminium alloys was successful in the same ionic liquid at 100 °C. The morphology and crystallinity of the obtained deposits were investigated using SEM and XRD, respectively. XRD measurements reveal the formation of iron-aluminium alloys. First magnetic measurements of some deposits gave relatively high coercive forces and power losses in comparison to commercial iron-silicon samples due to the small grain size in the nanometer regime. The present study shows the feasibility of preparing magnetic alloys from ionic liquids. PMID:24715034
Performance of AA5052 alloy anode in alkaline ethylene glycol electrolyte with dicarboxylic acids additives for aluminium-air batteries
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Wang, DaPeng; Zhang, DaQuan; Lee, KangYong; Gao, LiXin
Dicarboxylic acid compounds, i.e. succinic acid (SUA), adipic acid (ADA) and sebacic acid (SEA), are used as electrolyte additives in the alkaline ethylene glycol solution for AA5052 aluminium-air batteries. It shows that the addition of dicarboxylic acids lowers the hydrogen gas evolution rate of commercial AA5052 aluminium alloy anode. AA5052 aluminium alloy has wide potential window for electrochemical activity and better discharge performance in alkaline ethylene glycol solution containing dicarboxylic acid additives. ADA has the best inhibition effect for the self-corrosion of AA5052 anode among the three dicarboxylic acid additives. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) reveals that dicarboxylic acids and aluminium ions can form coordination complexes. Quantum chemical calculations shows that ADA has a smaller energy gap (ΔE, the energy difference between the lowest unoccupied orbital and the highest occupied orbital), indicating that ADA has the strongest interaction with aluminium ions.
Composite Ni-Co-fly ash coatings on 5083 aluminium alloy
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Panagopoulos, C. N.; Georgiou, E. P.; Tsopani, A.; Piperi, L.
Ni-Co-fly ash coatings were deposited on zincate treated 5083 wrought aluminium alloy substrates with the aid of the electrodeposition technique. Structural and chemical characterization of the produced composite coatings was performed with the aid of X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and electron dispersive X-ray analysis (EDS) techniques. The Ni-Co-fly ash coatings were found to consist of a crystalline Ni-Co solid solution with dispersed fly ash particles. In addition, chemical analysis of the Ni-Co matrix showed that it consisted of 80 wt.% Ni and 20 wt.% Co. The co-deposition of fly ash particles leads to a significant increase of the microhardness of the coating. The corrosion behaviour of the Ni-Co-fly ash/zincate coated aluminium alloy, in a 0.3 M NaCl solution (pH = 3.5), was studied by means of potentiodynamic corrosion experiments.
High-Rate Compaction of Aluminium Alloy Foams
Harrigan, J. J.; Hung, Y.-C.; Tan, P. J.; Bourne, N. K.; Withers, P. J.; Reid, S. R.; Millett, J. C. F.; Milne, A. M.
The response of aluminium foams to impact can be categorised according to the impact velocity. Tests have been carried out at a range of impact velocities from quasi-static to velocities approaching the speed of sound in the foam. Various experimental arrangements have been employed including pneumatic launcher tests and plate impact experimants at velocities greater than 1000 m s-1. The quasi-static compression behaviour was approximately elastic, perfectly-plastic, locking. For static and dynamic compression at low impact velocities the deformation pattern was through the cumulative multiplication of discrete, non-contiguous crush bands. Selected impact tests are presented here for which the impact velocity is less than the velocity of sound, but above a certain critical impact velocity so that the plastic compression occurs in a shock-like manner and the specimens deform by progressive cell crushing. Laboratory X-ray microtomography has been employed to acquire tomographic datasets of aluminium foams before and after tests. The morphology of the underformed foam was used as the input dataset to an Eulerian code. Hydrocode simulations were then carried out on a real microstructure. These simulations provide insight to mechanisms associated with the localization of deformation.
High-Rate Compaction of Aluminium Alloy Foams
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Harrigan, J. J.; Millett, J. C. F.; Milne, A. M.
The response of aluminium foams to impact can be categorised by the impact velocity. Tests are reported ranging from quasi-static to impact velocities greater than the speed of sound in the foam. The techniques used ranging from drop-hammer and pneumatic launcher tests, to plate impact at velocities greater than 1000 m s-1. The quasi-static compression behaviour was elastic, perfectly-plastic, locking. For static and dynamic compression at low impact velocities, post-impact examination of partially crushed specimens showed that deformation was through the cumulative multiplication of crush bands. If the impact velocity is less than the velocity of sound, but above a certain critical impact velocity, the plastic compression occurs in a shock-like manner and the specimens deform by progressive cell crushing. At higher impact velocities the compaction front is not preceded by an elastic wave. Laboratory X-ray microtomography has been employed to acquire tomographic datasets of aluminium foams before and after tests. The morphology of the underformed foam was input as the input dataset to an Eulerian code. Hydrocode simulations were then carried out on real microstructure. These simulations provide insight to mechanisms associated with the localization of deformation.
High-Rate Compaction of Aluminium Alloy Foams
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Harrigan, J. J.; Hung, Y.-C.; Tan, P. J.; Bourne, N. K.; Withers, P. J.; Reid, S. R.; Millett, J. C. F.; Milne, A. M.
The response of aluminium foams to impact can be categorised according to the impact velocity. Tests have been carried out at a range of impact velocities from quasi-static to velocities approaching the speed of sound in the foam. Various experimental arrangements have been employed including pneumatic launcher tests and plate impact experimants at velocities greater than 1000 m s-1. The quasi-static compression behaviour was approximately elastic, perfectly-plastic, locking. For static and dynamic compression at low impact velocities the deformation pattern was through the cumulative multiplication of discrete, non-contiguous crush bands. Selected impact tests are presented here for which the impact velocity is less than the velocity of sound, but above a certain critical impact velocity so that the plastic compression occurs in a shock-like manner and the specimens deform by progressive cell crushing. Laboratory X-ray microtomography has been employed to acquire tomographic datasets of aluminium foams before and after tests. The morphology of the underformed foam was used as the input dataset to an Eulerian code. Hydrocode simulations were then carried out on a real microstructure. These simulations provide insight to mechanisms associated with the localization of deformation.
Surface microhardening in a lithium implanted aluminium alloy
Singh, A.; Fiset, M.; Knystautas, E.J.; Lapointe, R.
This paper describes changes observed in microhardness after implanting energetic lithium ions into pure aluminum and its 2024-T351 alloy. The addition of lithium to aluminum lowers the density and increases both the modulus of elasticity and tensile strength. Thus, these properties make such alloys attractive in aerospace applications. The authors believe that this is the first report where lithium implantation has been used to evaluate near surface changes.
Protection of 2024-T3 aluminium alloy by corrosion resistant phytic acid conversion coating
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Shi, Hongwei; Han, En-Hou; Liu, Fuchun; Kallip, Silvar
The corrosion protection properties of environmentally friendly phytic acid conversion coatings were studied on 2024-T3 aluminium alloy. The films were prepared under acidic conditions with various pH values and characterised by SEM, EDS, ATR-FTIR and electrochemical techniques. The results indicate that the conversion coatings obtained by immersing the alloy in phytic acid solutions at pH from 3 to 5.5 provide excellent corrosion resistance. ATR-FTIR confirms that the film is formed by deposition of reaction products between Al3+ and phosphate groups in phytic acid molecules. The conformation models of the deposition film are proposed.
Structural properties of molten dilute aluminium-transition metal alloys.
Pozdnyakova, I; Hennet, L; Mathiak, G; Brillo, J; Zanghi, D; Brun, J-F; Brassamin, S; Bytchkov, A; Cristiglio, V; Véron, E; Matzen, G; Geandier, G; Thiaudière, D; Moss, S C; Spaepen, F; Egry, I; Price, D L
The short-range order in liquid binary Al-rich alloys (Al-Fe, Al-Ti) was studied by x-ray diffraction. The measurements were performed using a novel containerless technique which combines aerodynamic levitation with inductive heating. The average structure factors, S(Q), have been determined for various temperatures and compositions in the stable liquid state. From S(Q), the pair correlation functions, g(r), have been calculated. The first interatomic distance is nearly temperature-independent, whereas the first-shell coordination number decreases with increasing temperature for all the alloys investigated. For the Al-Fe alloys, room-temperature scanning electron microscropy (SEM) studies show the formation of a microstructure, namely the existence of Al(13)Fe(4) inclusions in the Al matrix. PMID:21690847
Electrochemical pitting evaluation of aluminium alloy 7075 in machining coolant
Stanaland, V.A.; Dillon, J.J.
The corrosion rate of aluminum alloy 7075 in Trim Sol with a Tris-Nitro biocide addition is satisfactory. Both deaeration and increasing the nitrite addition decreased the stability of the passive film. Chloride contamination below 500 ppM does not cause pitting corrosion of aluminum alloy 7075 in the Trim Sol environment. The limit for chloride contamination is between 500 and 1000 ppM. The potentiodynamic, fast-scan-rate technique is satisfactory for evaluating the pitting tendency of the aluminum alloy 7075 in a Trim Sol environment. Consequently, the potentiodynamic, fast-scan-rate technique is recommended for use in conjunction with reverse scans to evaluate the quality of in-use machining coolants, that are suspected of causing contamination.
Determination of anisotropy in impact toughness of aluminium alloy 2024 T3 plate
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Siddiqui, M. H.; Hashmi, F.; Junaid, A.
The research was aimed to quantify the existence of anisotropy in fracture toughness of aluminium alloy 2024 T3 plate (used in aircraft structural members). It was further needed to establish the direction in which the fracture toughness of aluminium alloy 2024 T3 plate is maximum and minimum. This could help ascertain the structural integrity of aircraft structural components; also while designing new components, the knowledge of variation in toughness with respect to direction helps in economizing dead weight of the aircraft. In this research, pursued at the College of Aeronautical Engineering, the anisotropy in toughness of aluminium alloy 2024 T3 plate was analysed using the Charpy V-notch impact toughness test. The effect of specimen orientation on the impact toughness values of the alloy was investigated and compared with known results to verify the reliability of the work and to ascertain the extent of anisotropy in fracture toughness of the said alloy. Charpy impact tests were carried out on ASTM E 23 standard specimens machined at a reference laboratory at room temperature (23° C +/- 2° C). Four different specimen orientations analysed for the purpose of this study were L-S, L-T, T-S and T-L directions. Subsequently, the results obtained at the research centre were then analysed and correlated with morphology of microstructure of the material to establish the reliability of the experimental results. Moreover, an analysis was also done to cater for the possible errors that could affect the fracture toughness values obtained from experimental results. It was concluded that the T-S orientation of the plate had maximum toughness, whereas, minimum toughness was observed in L-T direction.
Effect of Refiner Addition Level on Zirconium-Containing Aluminium Alloys
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Jaradeh, M. M. R.; Carlberg, T.
It is well known that in aluminium alloys containing Zr, grain refiner additions do not function as desired, producing an effect often referred to as nuclei poisoning. This paper investigates the structure of direct chill-cast ingots of commercial AA3003 aluminium alloys, with and without Zr, at various addition levels of Al5Ti1B master alloy. In Bridgman experiments simulating ingot solidification, Zr-containing alloys were studied after the addition of various amounts of Ti. It could be demonstrated, in both ingot casting and simulation experiments, that Zr poisoning can be compensated for by adding more Ti and/or Al5Ti1B. The results confirm better refinement behaviour with the addition of Ti + B than of only Ti. The various combinations of Zr and Ti also influenced the formation of AlFeMn phases, and the precipitation of large Al6(Mn,Fe) particles was revealed. AlZrTiSi intermetallic compounds were also detected.
A hybrid aluminium alloy and its zoo of interacting nano-precipitates
Wenner, Sigurd; Marioara, Calin Daniel; Andersen, Sigmund Jarle; Ervik, Martin; Holmestad, Randi
An alloy with aluminium as its base element is heat treated to form a multitude of precipitate phases known from different classes of industrial alloys: Al–Cu(–Mg), Al–Mg–Si–Cu, and Al–Zn–Mg. Nanometer-sized needle-shaped particles define the starting point of the phase nucleation, after which there is a split in the precipitation sequence into six phases of highly diverse compositions and morphologies. There are several unique effects of phases from different alloy systems being present in the same host lattice, of which we concentrate on two: the replacement of Ag by Zn on the Ω interface and the formation of combined plates of the θ′ and C phases. Using atomically resolved scanning transmission electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, we investigate the formation mechanisms, crystal structures and compositions of the precipitates. - Graphical abstract: Display Omitted - Highlights: • An aluminium alloy composition in-between the 2/6/7xxx systems was investigated. • Six different phases from the three systems coexist in an over-aged state. • All phases with 〈001〉{sub Al} coherencies can nucleate on 6xxx needle precipitates. • Modified theta′ and omega interfaces are observed.
The fatigue response of the aluminium-lithium alloy, 8090
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Birt, M. J.; Beevers, C. J.
The fatigue response of an Al-Li-Cu-Mg-Zr (8090) alloy has been studied at room temperature. The initiation and growth of small and long cracks has been examined at R = 0.1 and at a frequency of 100 Hz. Initiation was observed to occur dominantly at sub-grain boundaries. The growth of the small cracks was crystallographic in character and exhibited little evidence of retardation or arrest at the grain boundaries. The long crack data showed the alloy to have a high resistance to fatigue crack growth with underaging providing the optimum heat treatment for fatigue crack growth resistance. In general, this can be attributed to high levels of crack closure which resulted from the presence of extensive microstructurally related asperities.
Dilatometer study of rapidly solidified aluminium-silicon based alloys
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Varga, B.; Fazakas, E.; Hargitai, H.; Varga, L. K.
Aluminum-Silicon alloys are sought in a large number of automotive and aerospace applications due to their low coefficient of thermal expansion and high wear resistance. The present study focused on structural transformations as a function of the temperature of rapidly solidified hypereutectic Al100-xSix (x = 12, 22 and 40) alloys. Different structures out of equilibrium have been obtained after casting in sand, graphite and copper moulds and by melt spinning. The retained Si content in supersaturated alpha Al and the precipitation of Si is discussed in the light of the dilatometer studies [1, 2, 3] complemented by metallographic microscopy, XRD and DSC [4] measurements. A Kissinger analysis was used to determine the activation energy for the precipitation of supersaturated Si content.
Study on optimal surface property of WC-Co cutting tool for aluminium alloy cutting
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Nizar, Mohd; Arimatsu, Naoya; Kawamitsu, Hiroshi; Takai, Kazuteru; Fukumoto, Masahiro
The light weight property as well as high corrosion resistance of aluminium alloy has increased their demand especially in automobile industries. Aluminium alloy as a matter of fact has a low melting point and high ductility that severely adhere to the cutting tool surface and cause deterioration of chip evacuation. This problem often resulting in tools breakage. In this paper, in order to impart functions of anti-adhesion, we propose a technique by controlling the grinding marks micro texture on the tool surface by using the blast polishing treatment without any coating technologies. The results show that the tool which underwent polishing treatment reduces the cutting force as well as the aluminium adherence during the initial cutting process, and become worst as the process cutting continues. These results indicate that grinding mark texture improves the anti-adhesion by reducing the contact area during cutting and provide storage for the lubricant. In addition, too much polishing on the tool surface may remove these textures and resultantly worsen the tool performance.
Surface formation in direct chill (DC) casting of 6082 aluminium alloys
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Bayat, N.; Carlberg, T.
Surface defects in aluminium billet production are a real problem for the subsequent extrusion procedure. Extrusion productivity can be influenced by the surface properties, which is defined as surface appearance, surface segregation zone depth and large Mg2Si and β-particles (Al5FeSi). In this research the surface formation during DC casting of 6082 aluminium billets produced by the air slip technology is studied. The surface microstructures of 6082 aluminium alloys with smooth and wavy surface appearances were investigated, including segregation zone depths and phase formation. The results were discussed based on the exudation of liquid metal through the mushy zone. The specific appearance of the wavy surface of 6082 alloys was correlated to how the oxide skin adheres to the underlying mushy zone and coupled to the dendritic coherency and surface tension of the skin. The occurrence of different phases at the very surface and in the layer just below was explained by variations in solidification directions and subsequent segregation patterns.
Corrosion behavior of rapidly solidified magnesium-aluminium-zinc alloys
Daloz, D.; Michot, G.; Steinmetz, P.
Rapidly solidified magnesium alloys with 8 at%, 15 at%, and 20 at% Al and 1 at% and 3 at% Zn were fabricated by centrifugal atomization followed by hot extrusion. Microstructure of the alloys was composed of a fine-grain magnesium matrix (0.5 {micro}m) with {beta}-Mg{sub 17}Al{sub 12} precipitates. Electrochemical and weight-loss tests were performed in borate and ASTM D 1384 solution (chloride, carbonate, and sulfate). In both media, corrosion current f the alloys decreased with increases in aluminum or zinc content. In borate solution, a passivating plateau was observed from the corrosion potential (E{sub corr}) to E{sub corr} + 1,200 mV. Current density decreased with aluminum and zinc concentrations. Electrochemical behavior of the synthesized matrix and precipitates was characterized. Zinc increased E{sub corr} of the two phases, with a corresponding decrease of corrosion current. The same trend was noticed for aluminum but with a less dramatic effect. The corrosion mechanism was suggested result from galvanic coupling of the matrix and the second phase. The galvanic corrosion, however, was reduced strongly by passivation of the matrix as a result of the surrounding precipitates. The positive influence of rapid solidification (corrosion rate decreased 1 order of magnitude) was the creation of a fine, highly homogeneous microstructure through this fabrication process.
Investigation on Tool Wear Rate for Modified and Unmodified Aluminium-Silicon Casting Alloy
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Haque, M. M.; Khan, A. A.; Ismail, Ahmad F.
This study demonstrates and explains the effect of strontium modification on machinability of aluminium-silicon eutectic (LM-6 type) alloy. This alloy is known to have many favourable features including weight to strength ratio, high corrosion resistance and excellent castability. However, normal unmodified LM-6 alloy has poor machinability, which reduces its applications range. In this work, various samples of LM-6 alloy were cast using sand and metallic chill mould with and without strontium addition. Machining on each cast product, was carried out using recommended cutting parameters for Al-Si alloys. Strontium modified samples have recorded a reduction in average flank wear, an increase in shear plane angles and a reduction in chip thickness. The main reason for this improvement is the refining effect of strontium, which reduces the size of the hard silicon particles. As a result, their abrasive action on the tool face has reduced a lot. Dramatic reductions in tool wear rate were recorded when the microstructures were refined. On the other hand, when no refinement of microstructure occurs, tool wear rate becomes high. Chip analysis showed that strontium modified sample produced a thinner chip thickness with a larger shear plane angle, requiring less cutting forces. The tool wear depends not only on the phases present in the work material, but also on their sizes and distribution over entire structure. Thus, strontium modification has better effect on machinability of die cast alloy compared to that of the sand cast LM-6 alloy.
Fabrication of self-healing super-hydrophobic surfaces on aluminium alloy substrates
Wang, Yang; Wei Liu, Xiao; Zhang, Hai Feng Zhou, Zhi Ping
We present a method to fabricate a super-hydrophobic surface with a self-healing ability on an aluminium alloy substrate. The coatings are obtained by combining a two-step process (first, the substrate is immersed in a solution of HCl, HF and H{sub 2}O, and then in boiling water) and succeeding surface fluorination with a solution of poly(vinylidene-fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) and a fluoroalkyl silane. The morphological features and chemical composition were studied by scanning electron micrometry and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The prepared super-hydrophobic aluminium surfaces showed hierarchical structures forming pores, petals and particles with a contact angle of 161° and a sliding angle of 3°.
Finite Element Analysis of Warpage in Laminated Aluminium Alloy Plates for Machining of Primary Aeronautic Parts
Reis, A. C.; Moreira Filho, L. A.; Menezes, M. A.
The aim of this paper consists in presenting a method of simulating the warpage in 7xxx series aluminium alloy plates. To perform this simulation finite element software MSC.Patran and MSC.Marc were used. Another result of this analysis will be the influence on material residual stresses induced on the raw material during the rolling process upon the warpage of primary aeronautic parts, fabricated through machining (milling) at Embraer. The method used to determinate the aluminium plate residual stress was Layer Removal Test. The numerical algorithm Modified Flavenot Method was used to convert layer removal and beam deflection in stress level. With such information about the level and profile of residual stresses become possible, during the step that anticipate the manufacturing to incorporate these values in the finite-element approach for modelling warpage parts. Based on that warpage parameter surely the products are manufactured with low relative vulnerability propitiating competitiveness and price.
Properties of experimental copper-aluminium-nickel alloys for dental post-and-core applications
Rittapai, Apiwat; Kajornchaiyakul, Julathep; Harniratisai, Choltacha
PURPOSE This study aimed to develop a copper-aluminium-nickel alloy which has properties comparable to that of dental alloys used for dental post and core applications with the reasonable cost. MATERIALS AND METHODS Sixteen groups of experimental copper alloys with variants of 3, 6, 9, 12 wt% Al and 0, 2, 4, 6 wt% Ni were prepared and casted. Their properties were tested and evaluated. The data of thermal, physical, and mechanical properties were analyzed using the two-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (α=0.05). The alloy toxicity was evaluated according to the ISO standard. RESULTS The solidus and liquidus points of experimental alloys ranged from 1023℃ to 1113℃ and increased as the nickel content increased. The highest ultimate tensile strength (595.9 ± 14.2 MPa) was shown in the Cu-12Al-4Ni alloy. The tensile strength was increased as the both elements increased. Alloys with 3-6 wt% Al exhibited a small amount of 0.2% proof strength. Accordingly, the Cu-9Al-2Ni and Cu-9Al-4Ni alloys not only demonstrated an appropriate modulus of elasticity (113.9 ± 8.0 and 122.8 ± 11.3 GPa, respectively), but also had a value of 0.2% proof strength (190.8 ± 4.8 and 198.2 ± 3.4 MPa, respectively), which complied with the ISO standard requirement (>180 MPa). Alloys with the highest contents of nickel (6 wt% Ni) revealed a widespread decolourisation zone (5.0-5.9 mm), which correspondingly produced the largest cell response, equating positive control. CONCLUSION The copper alloys fused with 9 wt% Al and 2-4 wt% Ni can be considered for a potential use as dental post and core applications. PMID:25006386
Microstructure refinement of commercial 7xxx aluminium alloys solidified by the electromagnetic vibration technique
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Li, M.; Tamura, T.; Omura, N.; Murakami, Y.; Tada, S.
This paper examines the microstructure refinement of commercial 7xxx aluminium alloys solidified by the electromagnetic vibration technique (EMV) as a function of vibration frequency, f. The microstructure evolution reveals that at the low frequency of f = 62.5 Hz, the solidified microstructure is coarse and with the increase of vibration frequency to f = 500 Hz, the grain size becomes the finest and further increase of frequency to f = 2000 Hz results in coarsening of microstructures. The refinement mechanism is clarified when considering the significant difference in electrical resistivities of the solid and the liquid in mushy zone, in which both phases coexist and subject to vibration. The frequency-dependent refinement behaviour is revealed when the displacement of the mobile solid and sluggish liquid is taken into account during solidification. In contrast to 3xxx aluminium alloys, no giant compounds have been discerned in the present 7xxx alloy regardless of the solidification condition. The formation of crystalline twin is briefly discussed when considering the vibration condition.
Degradation Modeling of 2024 Aluminum Alloy During Corrosion Process
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Pidaparti, Ramana M.; Aghazadeh, Babak Seyed
Corrosion is one of the most damaging mechanisms in aluminum alloys used in aerospace engineering structures. In this article, the degradation behavior of AA 2024-T3 as a function of time under corrosive conditions is studied through experiments and modeling. Corrosion experiments were conducted on AA 2024-T3 specimens under controlled electrochemical conditions. The chemical element alloy map was investigated through EDS technique for evaluation purposes. Based on the experimental data, an analytical model is developed relating the material loss to the degradation during the corrosion process. The analytical model uses genetic algorithms (GAs) to map the relationship through optimization. The results obtained from GAs were compared with a standard non-linear regression model. The results obtained indicate that a quadratic relationship exists in time between the material loss due to corrosion and the degradation behavior of the alloy. Based on the good results obtained, the present approach of degradation modeling can be extended to other metals.
Microstructure evolution in age-hardenable aluminium alloy during processing by hydrostatic extrusion.
Lewandowska, M
In the present work, scanning and transmission electron microscopy were used to investigate the microstructural evolution occurring during the hydrostatic extrusion of an age-hardenable aluminium alloy. It was shown that processing by hydrostatic extrusion leads to grain refinement to 95 nm in equivalent diameter. Hydrostatic extrusion also influences the geometrical parameters of two different types of particle: intermetallic inclusions and precipitates. The intermetallic inclusions slightly decrease in mean equivalent diameter, but their size remains at the micrometre level. The precipitates are fragmented to nanoscale spherical particles, and their evolution delays the process of grain refinement. PMID:17100901
Bond strength of pressure sensitive adhesives for CFRP aluminium-alloy hybrid beams under impact loading
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Sato, C.
This paper discusses the impact absorbing capabilities of CFRP aluminium-alloy hybrid beams bonded with double-coated pressure sensitive adhesive tapes. Two sorts of double-coated adhesive tapes (VHB and SBT, 3M) were used in experiments. The strength and absorbed energy of the beams under impact loading were measured using an instrumented Charpy tester. Using the beams having the different adhesive tapes and the CFRP of different length, the variations of the strength and the absorbed energy were investigated. The beams bonded with VHB showed sufficient strength and absorbed energy. SBT showed also great capability of absorbing impact energy.
Research of aluminium alloy aerospace structure aperture measurement based on 3D digital speckle correlation method
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Bai, Lu; Wang, Hongbo; Zhou, Jiangfan; Yang, Rong; Zhang, Hui
In this paper, the aperture change of the aluminium alloy aerospace structure under real load is researched. Static experiments are carried on which is simulated the load environment of flight course. Compared with the traditional methods, through experiments results, it's proved that 3D digital speckle correlation method has good adaptability and precision on testing aperture change, and it can satisfy measurement on non-contact,real-time 3D deformation or stress concentration. The test results of new method is compared with the traditional method.
In situ creep under helium implantation of titanium aluminium alloy
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Chen, J.; Jung, P.; Nazmy, M.; Hoffelner, W.
The intermetallic alloy Ti-47Al-2W-0.5Si (at.%) has been homogeneously implanted with 4He2+ ions under uniaxial tensile stresses from 20 to 450 MPa to a maximum dose of about 0.16 dpa (1370 appm-He) with displacement damage rates of 2 × 10-6 dpa s-1 at temperatures of 573 and 773 K. Strain under implantation was determined by Linear Variable Displacement Transformer (LVDT), while changes of microstructure were investigated after implantation by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). Irradiation creep strain showed a pronounced transient behaviour, virtually independent of temperature, with a stress dependence which can be approximately described by a creep compliance of 8 × 10-6 dpa-1 MPa-1 up to stresses of 350 MPa. The microstructure of the as-received material consisted of a patch-work of mainly lamellar γ/α2 colonies and equiaxed γ-grains with islands of precipitates. Only 'black dot' damage was observed after implantation at 573 K under different stresses, while implantation at 773 K yielded a dense population of bubbles and dislocation loops, mostly mutually attached.
Effect of Ultrasonic Treatment on the Microstructure of A201 Aluminium Alloy for Thixoforming
Kandemir, Sinan; Atkinson, Helen V.; Lawes, Simon D. A.
It is known that the introduction of high intensity ultrasonic waves into liquid and solidifying metals leads to a non-dendritic and fine grain structure which is the requirement for semi-solid feedstock production. The effect of vibration time on the semi-solid microstructure of the A201 aluminium alloy billets fabricated with the ultrasonic treatment in the liquid state was studied in this paper. It was observed that the application of ultrasound technology can break up and distribute the dendrites which are present in the as-cast alloy. A suitable thixotropic microstructure with relatively rounded and fine globules could be obtained by ultrasonically treating liquid metal at 690 deg. C for a treatment time of 1 minute, cooling to room temperature and then reheating to the semi-solid state. This shows the ultrasonic treatment could be an economic and alternative route to produce A201 semi-solid feedstock for thixoforming.
Physically-based constitutive modelling of residual stress development in welding of aluminium alloy 2024
Preston, R.V.; Shercliff, H.R. . E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com; Withers, P.J.; Smith, S.
A finite element model has been developed to predict the evolution of residual stress and distortion which takes into account the history-dependence of the yield stress-temperature response of heat-treatable aluminium alloys during welding. The model was applied to TIG welding of 2024-T3 aluminium alloy, and the residual strain predictions validated using high resolution X-ray synchrotron diffraction. The goal was to capture the influence of the permanent evolution of the microstructure during the thermal cycle with a straightforward numerical procedure, while retaining a sound physical basis. Hardness and resistivity measurements after isothermal hold-and-quench experiments were used to identify salient temperatures for zero, partial and full dissolution of the initial hardening precipitates, and the extent of softening - both immediately after welding, and after natural ageing. Based on these data, a numerical procedure for weld modelling was proposed for tracking the different yield responses during heating and cooling based on the peak temperature reached locally. This history-dependent model was superior to a conventional model in predicting the peak tensile strains, but otherwise the effect of temperature history was weak for 2024-T3. Predictions of the hardness profile immediately after welding compared with the post-weld naturally aged hardness provided insight into the competition between dissolution and coarsening of the precipitates in the heat-affected zone.
Formation of Chromate Conversion Coatings on Aluminum and Its Alloys
Isaacs,H.; Sasaki, K.; Jeffcoate, C.; Laget, V.; Buchheit, R.
We used in situ X-ray adsorption near-edge structure (XANES) to investigate the formation of chromate conversion coatings on pure Al, commercial Al alloys (AA 1100, AA2024, and AA7075), and a series of binary A1-Cu alloys. The method employed a new electrochemical cell that can determine the ratio of hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) to total chromium (Cr(total)) speciation in conversion coatings as a fraction of exposure time to a chromate solution. The spectra showed that the initial Cr(VI)/Cr(total) ratios are greater than later ones for pure Al and AAl 100, but not for AA2024 and AA7075. Measurements with Al-Cu alloys demonstrated that the difference observed in AA2024 and AA7075 may not be due to Cu alloying. The proportion of Cr(VI) in the coatings becomes approximately constant after 180 s of exposure for all the specimens examined even though the coatings continue to grow.
Evaluation of AA5052 alloy anode in alkaline electrolyte with organic rare-earth complex additives for aluminium-air batteries
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Wang, Dapeng; Li, Heshun; Liu, Jie; Zhang, Daquan; Gao, Lixin; Tong, Lin
Behaviours of the AA5052 aluminium alloy anode of the alkaline aluminium-air battery are studied by the hydrogen evolution test, the electrochemical measurements and the surface analysis method. The combination of amino-acid and rare earth as electrolyte additives effectively retards the self-corrosion of AA5052 aluminium alloy in 4 M NaOH solution. It shows that the combination of L-cysteine and cerium nitrate has a synergistic effect owing to the formation of a complex film on AA5052 alloy surface. The organic rare-earth complex can decrease the anodic polarisation, suppress the hydrogen evolution and increase the anodic utilization rate.
Electrochemical and DFT studies of quinoline derivatives on corrosion inhibition of AA5052 aluminium alloy in NaCl solution
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Wang, Dapeng; Yang, Dong; Zhang, Daquan; Li, Kang; Gao, Lixin; Lin, Tong
Two quinoline derivatives, 8-aminoquinoline (8-AQ) and 8-nitroquinoline (8-NQ), have been used as inhibitors to examine their corrosion protection effect on AA5052 aluminium alloy in 3% NaCl solution. The weight-loss and electrochemical measurement have indicated that 8-AQ and 8-NQ play as anodic inhibitor to retard the anodic electrochemical process. SEM/EDS analysis clearly shows that 8-AQ and 8-NQ form a protective film on the AA5052 alloy surface. Density functional theory (DFT) calculation confirmed the formation of strong hybridization between the p-orbital of reactive sites in the inhibitor molecules and the sp-orbital of the Al atom. 8-aminoquinoline and 8-nitroquinoline may be useful as effective corrosion inhibitors for aluminium alloys.
Strain rate effects on mechanical properties in tension of aluminium alloys used in armour applications
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Cadoni, E.; Dotta, M.; Forni, D.; Bianchi, S.; Kaufmann, H.
The mechanical properties in tension of two aluminium alloys (AA5059-H131 and AA7039-T651) used in armour applications were determined from tests carried out over a wide range of strain-rates on round specimens. The experimental research was developed in the DynaMat laboratory of the University of Applied Sciences of Southern Switzerland. The target strain rates were set at the following four levels: 10-3, 30, 300 and 1000s-1. The quasi-static tests were performed with a universal electromechanical machine, whereas a hydro-pneumatic machine and a Split Hopkinson Tensile Bar apparatus were used for medium and high strain-rates respectively. The required parameters by the Johnson-Cook constitutive law were also determined.
Microstructure of friction stir welded joints of 2017A aluminium alloy sheets.
Mroczka, K; Dutkiewicz, J; Pietras, A
The present study examines a friction stir welded 2017A aluminium alloy. Transmission electron microscope investigations of the weld nugget revealed the average grain size of 5 microm, moderate density of dislocations as well as the presence of nanometric precipitates located mostly in grains interiors. Scanning electron microscope observations of fractures showed the presence of ductile fracture in the region of the weld nugget with brittle precipitates in the lower part. The microhardness analysis performed on the cross-section of the joints showed fairly small changes; however, after the artificial ageing process an increase in hardness was observed. The change of the joint hardness subject to the ageing process indicates partial supersaturation in the material during friction stir welding and higher precipitation hardening of the joint. PMID:20500429
Experimental characterisation and modelling of deformation- induced microstructure in an A6061 aluminium alloy
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Kreyca, J. F.; Falahati, A.; Kozeschnik, E.
For industry, the mechanical properties of a material in form of flow curves are essential input data for finite element simulations. Current practice is to obtain flow curves experimentally and to apply fitting procedures to obtain constitutive equations that describe the material response to external loading as a function of temperature and strain rate. Unfortunately, the experimental procedure for characterizing flow curves is complex and expensive, which is why the prediction of flow-curves by computer modelling becomes increasingly important. In the present work, we introduce a state parameter based model that is capable of predicting the flow curves of an A6061 aluminium alloy in different heat-treatment conditions. The model is implemented in the thermo-kinetic software package MatCalc and takes into account precipitation kinetics, subgrain formation, dynamic recovery by spontaneous annihilation and dislocation climb. To validate the simulation results, a series of compression tests is performed on the thermo-mechanical simulator Gleeble 1500.
Experimental study of thermal oxidation of nanoscale alloys of aluminium and zinc (nAlZn)
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Noor, Fahad; Wen, Dongsheng
Aluminium-based alloys have wide applications but little is known about the thermal-chemical kinetics of nanoalloys. This work investigated the thermal oxidation of Zn and Al nanoalloys (nAlZn) with a BET equivalent diameter of 141 nm through the simultaneous TGA/DSC method. The thermal analysis was combined with elemental, morphology and crystalline structure analysis to elucidate the reaction mechanisms. It was found that the complete oxidation of nAlZn in air can be characterised by a three-stage process, including two endothermic and three exothermic reactions. With the help of ex-situ XRD, different reaction pathways were proposed for different stages, forming the end products of ZnO and ZnAl2O4. The reactivity comparison between Al and nAlZn suggested that different criteria should be used for different applications.
Microstructures in the 6060 aluminium alloy after various severe plastic deformation treatments
Adamczyk-Cieslak, Boguslawa Mizera, Jaroslaw; Kurzydlowski, Krzysztof Jan
This paper presents the results concerning the microstructural refinement of the industrial 6060 aluminium alloy processed by severe plastic deformation (SPD). The high level of plastic deformation was achieved using the three methods: hydrostatic extrusion (HE), equal channel angular extrusion (ECAE) and extrusion torsion (ET), which differed in the dynamics of the loading, intensity and homogeneity of the plastic strain field. Microstructure analyses were performed before and after SPD deformation using a transmission (TEM) and a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The refined microstructures were examined qualitatively and quantitatively by the stereological methods and computer image analyses. The microstructure of the industrial 6060 aluminium alloy after deformation was characterized by an average grain size of about 0.4 {mu}m. The results show that the precipitates strongly affect the degree of refinement and the mechanism of microstructural transformations. During the SPD, the second phase particles break apart and homogenize. The HE method generates the largest increase of the volume fraction of the small primary particles. Moreover, the HE process is most effective in reducing the primary particle size. During HE and ECAE processes the second phase precipitates dissolve partially and change their shape. - Research Highlights: {yields} SPD results in a significant increase in the density of the small primary particles. {yields} SPD homogenizes the particle size distribution. {yields} HE and ECAE processes bring nano-grains in the vicinity of the primary particles. {yields} HE and ECAE processing results in the {beta}' precipitates partial dissolutions. {yields} During HE and ECAE processes the {beta}' particles change their shape.
Flow and failure of an aluminium alloy from low to high temperature and strain rate
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Sancho, Rafael; Cendón, David; Gálvez, Francisco
The mechanical behaviour of an aluminium alloy is presented in this paper. The study has been carried out to analyse the flow and failure of the aluminium alloy 7075-T73. An experimental study has been planned performing tests of un-notched and notched tensile specimens at low strain rates using a servo-hydraulic machine. High strain rate tests have been carried out using the same geometry in a Hopkinson Split Tensile Bar. The dynamic experiments at low temperature were performed using a cryogenic chamber, and the high temperature ones with a furnace, both incorporated to the Hopkinson bar. Testing temperatures ranged from - 50 ∘C to 100 ∘C and the strain rates from 10-4 s-1 to 600 s-1. The material behaviour was modelled using the Modified Johnson-Cook model and simulated using LS-DYNA. The results show that the Voce type of strain hardening is the most accurate for this material, while the traditional Johnson-Cook is not enough accurate to reproduce the necking of un-notched specimens. The failure criterion was obtained by means of the numerical simulations using the analysis of the stress triaxiality versus the strain to failure. The diameters at the failure time were measured using the images taken with an image camera, and the strain to failure was computed for un-notched and notched specimens. The numerical simulations show that the analysis of the evolution of the stress triaxiality is crucial to achieve accurate results. A material model using the Modified Johnson-Cook for flow and failure is proposed.
Extrusion Die Design and Process Simulation of High Strength Aluminium Alloy
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Sheu, Jinn-Jong; Chen, Yan-Hong; Su, Guan-Cheng
Aluminium alloy 7075 is an excellent metal with the features of high strength and light weight. The solid extruded parts of AL 7075 are commonly used in the structure members of airplanes and bicycles. The seamless tubes of AL 7075 are also used, while tubes with welding line (seamed) are mainly made by the other types of aluminium alloy. This research is focused on the extrusion die design and process simulation of the rectangular seamed AL 7075 tubes. A new die design concept is proposed to increase the welding pressure in the chamber to solve the problem of poor welding ability of AL 7075. The key points of welding ability improvement are the higher welding pressure, the crucial billet temperature, and the extrusion speed. The designed extrusion die should have some features to control the material flow and achieve the higher welding pressure. In this paper, not only use the traditional die bearing and the welding chamber, but also add a conical guiding chamber (specified with chamber height and width) to improve the material flow control. Finite element method is used to simulate the extrusion process and evaluate the effect of die design parameters for a seamed rectangular 7075 tube extrusion. The die stress should be considered carefully because of increasing the welding pressure also increases the die stress. Taguchi method is used to obtain the optimum combination of die design parameters to get higher welding pressure and keep the die stress at a reasonable low level. The method proposed in this paper is able to increase the welding pressure with the cost of reasonable die stress.
Influences of post weld heat treatment on tensile properties of friction stir welded AA2519-T87 aluminium alloy joints
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Sabari, S. Sree; Balasubramanian, V.; Malarvizhi, S.; Reddy, G. Madusudhan
AA 2519-T87 is an aluminium alloy that principally contains Cu as an alloying element and is a new grade of Al-Cu alloy system. This material is a potential candidate for light combat military vehicles. Fusion welding of this alloy leads to hot cracking, porosity and alloy segregation in the weld metal region. Friction stir welding (FSW) is a solid state joining process which can overcome the above mentioned problems. However, the FSW of age hardenable aluminium alloys results in poor tensile properties in the as-welded condition (AW). Hence, post weld heat treatment (PWHT) is used to enhance deteriorated tensile properties of FSW joints. In this work, the effect of PWHT, namely artificial ageing (AA) and solution treatment (ST) followed by ageing (STA) on the microstructure, tensile properties and microhardness were systematically investigated. The microstructural features of the weld joints were characterised using an optical microscope (OM), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM). The tensile strength and microhardness of the joints were correlated with the grain size, precipitate size, shape and its distribution. From the investigation, it was found that STA treatment is beneficial in enhancing the tensile strength of the FSW joints of AA2519-T87 alloy and this is mainly due to the presence of fine and densely distributed precipitates in the stir zone.
A survey of some metallographic etching reagents for restoration of obliterated engraved marks on aluminium-silicon alloy surfaces.
Uli, Norjaidi; Kuppuswamy, R; Amran, Mohd Firdaus Che
A brief survey to assess the sensitivity and efficacy of some common etching reagents for revealing obliterated engraved marks on Al-Si alloy surfaces is presented. Experimental observations have recommended use of alternate swabbing of 10% NaOH and 10% HNO(3) on the obliterated surfaces for obtaining the desired results. The NaOH etchant responsible for bringing back the original marks resulted in the deposition of some dark coating that has masked the recovered marks. The coating had been well removed by dissolving it in HNO(3) containing 10-20% acid. However, the above etching procedure was not effective on aluminium (99% purity) and Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloy surfaces. Also the two reagents (i) immersion in 10% aq. phosphoric acid and (ii) alternate swabbing of 60% HCl and 40% NaOH suggested earlier for high strength Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloys [23] were quite ineffective on Al-Si alloys. Thus different aluminium alloys needed different etching treatments for successfully restoring the obliterated marks. Al-Si alloys used in casting find wide applications especially in the manufacture of engine blocks of motor vehicles. Hence, the results presented in this paper are of much relevance in serial number restoration problems involving this alloy. PMID:21145675
High temperature oxidation of copper and copper aluminium alloys: Impact on furnace side wall cooling systems
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Plascencia Barrera, Gabriel
The high temperature oxidation behaviours of copper and dilute Cu-Al alloys were investigated. Experiments were carried out by: (i) Oxidizing under various oxygen potentials at different temperatures using a combined TG-DTA apparatus. (ii) Oxidizing in a muffle furnace (in air) at different temperatures for extended periods of time. The oxidation mechanisms were evaluated based upon the kinetic data obtained as well as by X-ray diffraction and microscopical (SEM and optical) analyses. It was found that oxidation of copper strongly depends on the temperature. Two distinct mechanisms were encountered. Between 300 and 500°C, the oxidation rate is controlled by lateral growth of the oxide on the metal surface, whereas between 600 and 1000°C oxidation is controlled by lattice diffusion of copper ions through the oxide scale. On the other hand, the partial pressure of oxygen only has a small effect on the oxidation of copper. Alloy oxidation is also dependent on the temperature. As temperature increases, more aluminium is required to protect copper from being oxidized. It was shown that if the amount of oxygen that dissolves in the alloy exceeds the solubility limit of oxygen in copper, an internal oxidation layer will develop, leading to the formation of a tarnishing scale. On the other hand if the oxygen content in the alloy lies below the solubility limit of oxygen in copper, no oxidation products will form since a tight protective alumina layer will form on the alloy surface. Surface phenomena may affect the oxidation behaviour of dilute Cu-Al alloys. Immersion tests in molten copper matte and copper converting slag, using laboratory scale cooling elements with various copper based materials, were conducted. Results from these tests showed that alloying copper with 3 to 4 wt% Al decreases the oxidation rate of pure copper by 4 orders of magnitude; however due to a significant drop in thermal conductivity, the ability to extract heat is compromised, leading to
The influence of quench sensitivity on residual stresses in the aluminium alloys 7010 and 7075
Robinson, J.S.; Tanner, D.A.; Truman, C.E.; Paradowska, A.M.; Wimpory, R.C.
The most critical stage in the heat treatment of high strength aluminium alloys is the rapid cooling necessary to form a supersaturated solid solution. A disadvantage of quenching is that the thermal gradients can be sufficient to cause inhomogeneous plastic deformation which in turn leads to the development of large residual stresses. Two 215 mm thick rectilinear forgings have been made from 7000 series alloys with widely different quench sensitivity to determine if solute loss in the form of precipitation during quenching can significantly affect residual stress magnitudes. The forgings were heat treated and immersion quenched using cold water to produce large magnitude residual stresses. The through thickness residual stresses were measured by neutron diffraction and incremental deep hole drilling. The distribution of residual stresses was found to be similar for both alloys varying from highly triaxial and tensile in the interior, to a state of biaxial compression in the surface. The 7010 forging exhibited larger tensile stresses in the interior. The microstructural variation from surface to centre for both forgings was determined using optical and transmission electron microscopy. These observations were used to confirm the origin of the hardness variation measured through the forging thickness. When the microstructural changes were accounted for in the through thickness lattice parameter, the residual stresses in the two forgings were found to be very similar. Solute loss in the 7075 forging appeared to have no significant effect on the residual stress magnitudes when compared to 7010. - Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Through thickness residual stress measurements made on large Al alloy forgings. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Residual stress characterised using neutron diffraction and deep hole drilling. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Biaxial compressive surface and triaxial subsurface residual stresses. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Quench sensitivity
Pulsed laser cleaning of aluminium-magnesium alloys: effect of surface modifications on adhesion
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Autric, Michel; Oltra, Roland
Surface cleaning is a key step in many industrial processes and especially in laser surface treatments. During laser cleaning of metallic alloys using pulsed lasers, surface modification can be induced due to transient thermal effect. In ambient atmospheric conditions, an oxidation of the cleaned surface can be detected. The aim of this work was to characterize this transient oxidation that can occur below the laser energy domain leading to any phase change (melting, ablation) of the cleaned substrate. A Q-switched Nd:YAG laser (1.06 μm) with 10 ns pulse duration was used for this study. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and secondary ion mass spectroscopy were used for surface analysis of irradiated samples. Thermal oxidation took place on the aluminium-magnesium alloy (5000 series) during the irradiation in air (fluence range 0.6-1.4 Jcm-2). It has been demonstrated that this 10 ns laser thermal oxidation and the steady state thermal oxidation have the same mechanism. When the laser fluence reached 1 J cm -2 , the oxide formed by the thermal oxidation became in a large extent crystalline and its outer part was entirely covered by a continuous magnesium oxide layer.
We used in situ X-ray adsorption near-edge structure (XANES) to investigate the formation of chromate conversion coatings on pure Al, commercial Al alloys (AA 1100, AA2024, and AA7075), and a series of binary Al-Cu alloys. The method employed a new electrochemical cell that can determine the ratio of hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) to total chromium (Cr(total)) speciation in conversion coatings as a function of exposure time to a chromate solution. The spectra showed that the initial Cr(VI)/Cr(total) ratios are greater than later ones for pure Al and AA1100, but not for AA2024 and AA7075. Measurements with Al-Cu alloys demonstrated that the difference observed in AA2024 and AA7075 may not be due to Cu alloying. The proportion of Cr(VI) in the coatings becomes approximately constant after 180 s of exposure for all the specimens examined even though the coatings continue to grow.
A microstructure-based yield stress and work-hardening model for textured 6xxx aluminium alloys
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Khadyko, M.; Myhr, O. R.; Dumoulin, S.; Hopperstad, O. S.
The plastic properties of an aluminium alloy are defined by its microstructure. The most important factors are the presence of alloying elements in the form of solid solution and precipitates of various sizes, and the crystallographic texture. A nanoscale model that predicts the work-hardening curves of 6xxx aluminium alloys was proposed by Myhr et al. The model predicts the solid solution concentration and the particle size distributions of different types of metastable precipitates from the chemical composition and thermal history of the alloy. The yield stress and the work hardening of the alloy are then determined from dislocation mechanics. The model was largely used for non-textured materials in previous studies. In this work, a crystal plasticity-based approach is proposed for the work hardening part of the nanoscale model, which allows including the influence of the crystallographic texture. The model is evaluated by comparison with experimental data from uniaxial tensile tests on two textured 6xxx alloys in five temper conditions.
Zirconium behaviour during electrorefining of actinide-zirconium alloy in molten LiCl-KCl on aluminium cathodes
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Meier, R.; Souček, P.; Malmbeck, R.; Krachler, M.; Rodrigues, A.; Claux, B.; Glatz, J.-P.; Fanghänel, Th.
A pyrochemical electrorefining process for the recovery of actinides from metallic nuclear fuel based on actinide-zirconium alloys (An-Zr) in a molten salt is being investigated. In this process actinides are group-selectively recovered on solid aluminium cathodes as An-Al alloys using a LiCl-KCl eutectic melt at a temperature of 450 °C. In the present study the electrochemical behaviour of zirconium during electrorefining was investigated. The maximum amount of actinides that can be oxidised without anodic co-dissolution of zirconium was determined at a selected constant cathodic current density. The experiment consisted of three steps to assess the different stages of the electrorefining process, each of which employing a fresh aluminium cathode. The results indicate that almost a complete dissolution of the actinides without co-dissolution of zirconium is possible under the applied experimental conditions.
New understanding of the role of coincidence site lattice boundaries in abnormal grain growth of aluminium alloy
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Park, Chang-Soo; Park, Hyung-Ki; Shim, Hyung-Seok; Na, Tae-Wook; Han, Chan-Hee; Hwang, Nong-Moon
The sequential microstructure evolution of abnormal grain growth (AGG) in the aluminium alloy (AA5052) was investigated to analyse the migration behaviour of coincidence site lattice (CSL) boundaries, which are known to play an important role in inducing AGG. The sequential evolution showed that CSL boundaries tend to disappear more slowly than general boundaries at the growth front of abnormally growing grains. Especially, the migration rate of Σ9 boundaries was noticeably low, which is contrary to the previous suggestions.
Temperature and thermal stress fields during the pulse train of long-pulse laser irradiating aluminium alloy plate
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Zhang, Wei; Jin, Guangyong; Gu, Xiu-ying
Based on Von Mises yield criterion and elasto-plastic constitutive equations, an axisymmetric finite element model of a Gaussian laser beam irradiating a metal substrate was established. In the model of finite element, the finite difference hybrid algorithm is used to solve the problem of transient temperature field and stress field. Taking nonlinear thermal and mechanical properties into account, transient distributions of temperature field and stress fields generated by the pulse train of long-pulse laser in a piece of aluminium alloy plate were computed by the model. Moreover,distributions as well as histories of temperature and stress fields were obtained. Finite element analysis software COMSOL is used to simulate the Temperature and thermal stress fields during the pulse train of long-pulse laser irradiating 7A04 aluminium alloy plate. By the analysis of the results, it is found that Mises equivalent stress on the target surface distribute within the scope of the center of a certain radius. However, the stress is becoming smaller where far away from the center. Futhermore, the Mises equivalent stress almost does not effect on stress damage while the Mises equivalent stress is far less than the yield strength of aluminum alloy targets. Because of the good thermal conductivity of 7A04 aluminum alloy, thermal diffusion is extremely quick after laser irradiate. As a result, for the multi-pulsed laser, 7A04 aluminum alloy will not produce obvious temperature accumulation when the laser frequency is less than or equal to 10 Hz. The result of this paper provides theoretical foundation not only for research of theories of 7A04 aluminium alloy and its numerical simulation under laser radiation but also for long-pulse laser technology and widening its application scope.
Shock induced spall fracture in aluminium alloy "Al2014-T4"
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Joshi, K. D.; Rav, Amit; Sur, Amit; Das, P. C.; Gupta, Satish C.
The plate impact experiments have been carried out on 8mm thick target plates of aluminium alloy Al2014-T4 at impact velocities of 180 m/s, 290 m/s and 500m/s, respectively, using single stage gas gun facility. In each experiment, the of free surface velocity history of the sample plate is measured using VISAR instrument and utilized to determine the spall strength and dynamic yield strength of this material. The spall strength of 0.87 GPa, 0.97 GPa and 1.11 GPa, respectively, measured for impact velocities of 180 m/s, 290 m/s and 500 m/s with corresponding average strain rates varying from 1.36×104/s to 2.41×14/s has been found to display nearly linear dependence upon the strain rates. The dynamic yield strength with its value ranging from 0.395 GPa to 0.400 GPa, though, is higher than the quasi static value of 0.355GPa, appears to be relatively independent of impact velocities up to at least 500 m/s or equivalently strain rates up to ˜ 9.4×104/s.
Influence of transport mechanisms on nucleation and grain structure formation in DC cast aluminium alloy ingots
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Bedel, M.; Založnik, M.; Kumar, A.; Combeau, H.; Jarry, P.; Waz, E.
The grain structure formation in direct chill (DC) casting is directly linked to nucleation, which is generally promoted by inoculation. Inoculation prevents defects, but also modifies the physical properties by changing the microstructure. We studied the coupling of the nucleation on inoculant particles and the grain growth in the presence of melt flow induced by thermosolutal convection and of the transport of free-floating equiaxed grains. We used a volume-averaged two-phase multiscale model with a fully coupled description of phenomena on the grain scale (nucleation on grain refiner particles and grain growth) and on the product scale (macroscopic transport). The transport of inoculant particles is also modeled, which accounts for the inhomogeneous distribution of inoculant particles in the melt. The model was applied to an industrial sized (350mm thick) DC cast aluminium alloy ingot. A discretised nuclei size distribution was defined and the impact of different macroscopic phenomena on the grain structure formation was studied: the zone and intensity of nucleation and the resulting grain size distribution. It is shown that nucleation in the presence of macroscopic transport cannot be explained only in terms of cooling rate, but variations of composition, nuclei density and grain density, all affected by transport, must be accounted for.
Modelling of liquid metal flow and oxide film defects in filling of aluminium alloy castings
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Dai, X.; Jolly, M.; Yang, X.; Campbell, J.
The liquid metal flow behaviours in different runner system designs have important effects on the mechanical strength of aluminium alloy castings. In this paper, a new model has been developed which is a two-dimensional program using a finite difference technique and the Marker and Cell (MAC) method to simulate the flow of liquid metal during filling a mould. In the program the Eulerian method has been used for the liquid metal flow, while the Oxide Film Entrainment Tracking Algorithm (OFET) method (a Lagrangian method) has been used to simulate the movement of the oxide film on the liquid metal surface or in the liquid metal flow. Several examples have been simulated and tested and the relevant results were obtained. These results were compared with measured bending strengths. It was found that the completed program was capable of simulating effectively the filling processes of different runner systems. The simulation results are consistent with the experiment. In addition, the program is capable of providing clearer images for predicting the distribution of the oxide film defects generated during filling a mould.
Fatigue behaviour of laser machined 2024 T3 aeronautic aluminium alloy
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Carpio, F. J.; Araújo, D.; Pacheco, F. J.; Méndez, D.; García, A. J.; Villar, M. P.; García, R.; Jiménez, D.; Rubio, L.
High power laser applications as welding, machining and marking are widely used in several industrial sectors to take advantage of their high processing velocity, clean processing conditions, and a high versatility. However, the heat affected zone (HAZ) is expected to change the mechanical behaviour of laser processed structural elements. For aeronautic applications, this feature is of first importance because those elements suffer cyclic stress under service conditions. Indeed, the most severe requirements for further industrial implantation are the fatigue specifications. In this communication, fatigue behaviour of laser machined 2024 aluminium alloy is studied to evaluate a possible certification of laser-based machining in the aeronautic industry. For this reason, 1.6 mm thick samples laser machined were carried out using a CO 2 laser. The experimental fatigue curves are shown to lie very close to aeronautic requirement despite theoretical fatigue behaviour of the material is significantly more resistant. This is attributed to surface roughness induced by a surface melting zone shown that diminish the fatigue resistance. Fatigue behaviour and surface roughness should be improved using higher power and/or high absorption wavelength as that of YAG laser ( λ=1.06 μm).
Deep surface rolling for fatigue life enhancement of laser clad aircraft aluminium alloy
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Zhuang, W.; Liu, Q.; Djugum, R.; Sharp, P. K.; Paradowska, A.
Deep surface rolling can introduce deep compressive residual stresses into the surface of aircraft metallic structure to extend its fatigue life. To develop cost-effective aircraft structural repair technologies such as laser cladding, deep surface rolling was considered as an advanced post-repair surface enhancement technology. In this study, aluminium alloy 7075-T651 specimens with a blend-out region were first repaired using laser cladding technology. The surface of the laser cladding region was then treated by deep surface rolling. Fatigue testing was subsequently conducted for the laser clad, deep surface rolled and post-heat treated laser clad specimens. It was found that deep surface rolling can significantly improve the fatigue life in comparison with the laser clad baseline repair. In addition, three dimensional residual stresses were measured using neutron diffraction techniques. The results demonstrate that beneficial compressive residual stresses induced by deep surface rolling can reach considerable depths (more than 1.0 mm) below the laser clad surface.
Comparison of self-healing ionomer to aluminium-alloy bumpers for protecting spacecraft equipment from space debris impacts
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Francesconi, A.; Giacomuzzo, C.; Grande, A. M.; Mudric, T.; Zaccariotto, M.; Etemadi, E.; Di Landro, L.; Galvanetto, U.
This paper discusses the impact behavior of a self-healing ionomeric polymer and compares its protection capability against space debris impacts to that of simple aluminium-alloy bumpers. To this end, 14 impact experiments on both ionomer and Al-7075-T6 thin plates with similar surface density were made with 1.5 mm aluminium spheres at velocity between 1 and 4 km/s.First, the perforation extent in both materials was evaluated vis-à-vis the prediction of well known hole-size equations; then, attention was given to the damage potential of the cloud of fragments ejected from the rear side of the target by analysing the craters pattern and the momentum transferred to witness plates mounted on a ballistic pendulum behind the bumpers.Self-healing was completely successful in all but one ionomer samples and the primary damage on ionomeric polymers was found to be significantly lower than that on aluminium. On the other hand, aluminium plates exhibited slightly better debris fragmentation abilities, even though the protecting performance of ionomers seemed to improve at increasing impact speed.
Experimental investigations of visco-plastic properties of the aluminium and tungsten alloys used in KE projectiles
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Kruszka, L.; Magier, M.
The main aim of studies on dynamic behaviour of construction materials at high strain rates is to determine the variation of mechanical properties (strength, plasticity) in function of the strain rate and temperature. On the basis of results of dynamic tests on the properties of constructional materials the constitutive models are formulated to create numerical codes applied to solve constructional problems with computer simulation methods. In the case of military applications connected with the phenomena of gunshot and terminal ballistics it's particularly important to develop a model of strength and armour penetration with KE projectile founded on reliable results of dynamic experiments and constituting the base for further analyses and optimization of projectile designs in order to achieve required penetration depth. Static and dynamic results of strength investigations of the EN AW-7012 aluminium alloy (sabot) and tungsten alloy (penetrator) are discussed in this paper. Static testing was carried out with the INSTRON testing machine. Dynamic tests have been conducted using the split Hopkinson pressure bars technique at strain rates up to 1,2 ṡ 104s-1 (for aluminium alloy) and 6 ṡ 103s-1 (for tungsten alloy).
In-vitro characterization of stress corrosion cracking of aluminium-free magnesium alloys for temporary bio-implant applications.
Choudhary, Lokesh; Singh Raman, R K; Hofstetter, Joelle; Uggowitzer, Peter J
The complex interaction between physiological stresses and corrosive human body fluid may cause premature failure of metallic biomaterials due to the phenomenon of stress corrosion cracking. In this study, the susceptibility to stress corrosion cracking of biodegradable and aluminium-free magnesium alloys ZX50, WZ21 and WE43 was investigated by slow strain rate tensile testing in a simulated human body fluid. Slow strain rate tensile testing results indicated that each alloy was susceptible to stress corrosion cracking, and this was confirmed by fractographic features of transgranular and/or intergranular cracking. However, the variation in alloy susceptibility to stress corrosion cracking is explained on the basis of their electrochemical and microstructural characteristics. PMID:25063163
Laser surface melting of aluminium alloy 6013 for improving stress corrosion and corrosion fatigue resistance
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Xu, Wen-Long
Laser surface treatment of aluminium alloy 6013, a relatively new high strength aluminium alloy, was conducted with the aim of improving the alloy's resistance to stress corrosion cracking and corrosion fatigue. In the first phase of this research, laser surface melting (LSM) of the alloy was conducted using an excimer laser. The microstructural changes induced by the laser treatment were studied in detail and characterised. The results showed that excimer LSM produced a relatively thin, non-dentritic planar re-melted layer which is largely free of coarse constituent particles and precipitates. The planar growth phenomenon was explained using the high velocity and high temperature gradient absolute stability criteria. The structure of the oxide and/or the nitride bearing film at the outmost surface of the re-melted layer was also characterised. The results of the electrochemical tests showed that the pitting corrosion resistance of the alloy could be greatly increased by excimer laser melting, especially when the alloy was treated in nitrogen gas: the corrosion current density of the N2-treated specimen was some two orders of magnitude lower than that of the air-treated specimen which was one order of magnitude lower than that of the untreated specimen. The effect of the outer surface oxide and/or nitride bearing film per se on pitting corrosion resistance was determined. The results of a Mott - Schottky analysis strongly suggest that the outer surface film, which exhibited the nature of an n-type semiconductor was responsible for the significant improvement of the corrosion resistance of the laser-treated material. Furthermore, the corrosion response of the surface film was modelled using equivalent circuits. Based on the results of the slow strain rate tensile (SSRT) and corrosion fatigue tests, the stress corrosion cracking and pitting corrosion fatigue behaviour of the excimer laser treated material was evaluated. The results of the SSRT test showed that, in
Influence of Hot Deformation on Mechanical Properties and Microstructure of a Twin-Roll Cast Aluminium Alloy EN AW-6082
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Grydin, O.; Stolbchenko, M.; Nürnberger, F.; Schaper, M.
Thin strips of medium- and high-strength age-hardening aluminium alloys are widely used in the automotive industry. Reducing their production costs caused by high energy consumption is an actual challenge. The implementation of the twin-roll casting technology is promising. However, mechanical properties of directly cast high-alloyed thin aluminium strips are oftentimes inadequate to standard specifications. In this work, the influence of a hot deformation following a twin-roll cast strip process on the mechanical properties and microstructure is investigated. For this study strips of age-hardening aluminium alloy EN AW-6082—manufactured at a laboratory scaled twin-roll caster—were single-pass rolled at temperatures of 420 °C and true strains of up to 0.5. The mechanical properties of the as-cast and by different strains hot deformed material in the soft-annealed and age-hardened states were characterized by tensile tests. The results reveal that the twin-roll cast material features the necessary strength properties, though it does not meet the standard requirements for ductility. Furthermore, the required minimum strain during hot rolling that is necessary to ascertain the standard specifications has been determined. Based on micrographs, the uniformity of the mechanical properties and of the microstructure as a result of recrystallization due to hot metal forming and heat treatment were determined. A fine-grain microstructure and satisfactory material ductility after prior rolling with a true strain above 0.41 for the age-hardened state T6 and above 0.1 for the soft-annealed state O have been established.
Electromagnetic Gauge Study of Laser-Induced Shock Waves in Aluminium Alloys
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Peyre, P.; Fabbro, R.
The laser-shock behaviour of three industrial aluminum alloys has been analyzed with an Electromagnetic Gauge Method (EMV) for measuring the velocity of the back free surface of thin foils submitted to plane laser irradiation. Surface pressure, shock decay in depth and Hugoniot Elastic Limits (HEL) of the materials were investigated with increasing thicknesses of foils to be shocked. First, surface peak pressures values as a function of laser power density gave a good agreement with conventional piezoelectric quartz measurements. Therefore, comparison of experimental results with computer simulations, using a 1D hydrodynamic Lagrangian finite difference code, were also in good accordance. Lastly, HEL values were compared with static and dynamic compressive tests in order to estimate the effects of a very large range of strain rates (10^{-3} s^{-1} to 10^6 s^{-1}) on the mechanical properties of the alloys. Cet article fait la synthèse d'une étude récente sur la caractérisation du comportement sous choc-laser de trois alliages d'aluminium largement utilisés dans l'industrie à travers la méthode dite de la jauge électromagnétique. Cette méthode permet de mesurer les vitesses matérielles induites en face arrière de plaques d'épaisseurs variables par un impact laser. La mise en vitesse de plaques nous a permis, premièrement, de vérifier la validité des pressions d'impact superficielles obtenues en les comparant avec des résultats antérieurs obtenus par des mesures sur capteurs quartz. Sur des plaques d'épaisseurs croissantes, nous avons caractérisé l'atténuation des ondes de choc en profondeur dans les alliages étudiés et mesuré les limites d'élasticité sous choc (pressions d'Hugoniot) des alliages. Les résultats ont été comparés avec succès à des simulations numériques grâce à un code de calcul monodimensionnel Lagrangien. Enfin, les valeurs des pressions d'Hugoniot mesurées ont permis de tracer l'évolution des contraintes d
Wear Properties of Thixoformed and High Pressure Die Cast Aluminium Alloys for Connecting Rod Applications in Compressors
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Birol, Yücel; Birol, Feriha
Hypereutectic aluminium casting alloys are attractive candidates for connecting rod applications in compressors. The wear properties of these alloys are largely controlled by their microstructural features which in turn are affected by the processing route. Several hypo- and hypereutectic Al-Si alloys were produced by high pressure die casting and thixoforming in the present work. The former route produced a very fine microstructure while relatively coarser, globular α-Al matrix dominated in thixoformed grades. A modified Falex Block on Ring equipment was employed to investigate the wear properties of these alloys. Wear tests were carried out under service conditions in the lubricated state at 75°C. The superior wear properties of hypereutectic alloys produced by high pressure die casting with respect to the thixoformed variety is accounted for by the very fine microstructure with a fine dispersion of primary Si particles in the former. Of the two production routes employed, thixoforming had a favorable effect on wear properties at equal Si levels.
Effects of surface treatment of aluminium alloy 1050 on the adhesion and anticorrosion properties of the epoxy coating
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Sharifi Golru, S.; Attar, M. M.; Ramezanzadeh, B.
The objective of this work is to investigate the effects of zirconium-based (Zr) conversion coating on the adhesion properties and corrosion resistance of an epoxy/polyamide coating applied on the aluminium alloy 1050 (AA1050). Field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectrum (EDS), atomic force microscope (AFM) and contact angle measuring device were employed in order to characterize the surface characteristics of the Zr treated AA1050 samples. The epoxy/polyamide coating was applied on the untreated and Zr treated samples. The epoxy coating adhesion to the aluminium substrate was evaluated by pull-off test before and after 30 days immersion in 3.5% w/w NaCl solution. In addition, the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and salt spray tests were employed to characterize the corrosion protection properties of the epoxy coating applied on the AA1050 samples. Results revealed that the surface treatment of AA1050 by zirconium conversion coating resulted in the increase of surface free energy and surface roughness. The dry and recovery (adhesion strength after 30 days immersion in the 3.5 wt% NaCl solution) adhesion strengths of the coatings applied on the Zr treated aluminium samples were greater than untreated sample. In addition, the adhesion loss of the coating applied on the Zr treated aluminium substrate was lower than other samples. Also, the results obtained from EIS and salt spray test clearly revealed that the Zr conversion coating could enhance the corrosion protective performance of the epoxy coating significantly.
Corrosion of aluminum alloy 2024 by microorganisms isolated from aircraft fuel tanks.
McNamara, Christopher J; Perry, Thomas D; Leard, Ryan; Bearce, Ktisten; Dante, James; Mitchell, Ralph
Microorganisms frequently contaminate jet fuel and cause corrosion of fuel tank metals. In the past, jet fuel contaminants included a diverse group of bacteria and fungi. The most common contaminant was the fungus Hormoconis resinae. However, the jet fuel community has been altered by changes in the composition of the fuel and is now dominated by bacterial contaminants. The purpose of this research was to determine the composition of the microbial community found in fuel tanks containing jet propellant-8 (JP-8) and to determine the potential of this community to cause corrosion of aluminum alloy 2024 (AA2024). Isolates cultured from fuel tanks containing JP-8 were closely related to the genus Bacillus and the fungi Aureobasidium and Penicillium. Biocidal activity of the fuel system icing inhibitor diethylene glycol monomethyl ether is the most likely cause of the prevalence of endospore forming bacteria. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and metallographic analysis of AA2024 exposed to the fuel tank environment indicated that the isolates caused corrosion of AA2024. Despite the limited taxonomic diversity of microorganisms recovered from jet fuel, the community has the potential to corrode fuel tanks. PMID:16522539
Study of twin-roll cast Aluminium alloys subjected to severe plastic deformation by equal channel angular pressing
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Poková, M.; Cieslar, M.
Aluminium alloys prepared by twin-roll casting method become widely used in industry applications. Their high solid solution supersaturation and finer grains ensure better mechanical properties when compared with the direct-chill cast ones. One of the possibilities how to enhance their thermal stability is the addition of zirconium. After heat treatment Al3Zr precipitates form and these pin moving grain boundaries when the material is exposed to higher temperatures. In the present work twin-roll cast aluminium alloys based on AA3003 with and without Zr addition were annealed for 8 hours at 450 °C to enable precipitation of Al3Zr phase. Afterwards they were subjected to severe plastic deformation by equal channel angular pressing, which led to the reduction of average grain size under 1 μm. During subsequent isochronal annealing recovery and recrystallization took place. These processes were monitored by microhardness measurements, light optical microscopy and in-situ transmission electron microscopy. The addition of Zr stabilizes the grain size and increases the recrystallization temperature by 100 °C.
Non-destructive and three-dimensional measurement of local strain development during tensile deformation in an aluminium alloy
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Kobayashi, M.; Miura, H.; Toda, H.
Anisotropy of mechanical responses depending on crystallographic orientation causes inhomogeneous deformation on the mesoscopic scale (grain size scale). Investigation of the local plastic strain development is important for discussing recrystallization mechanisms, because the sites with higher local plastic strain may act as potential nucleation sites for recrystallization. Recently, high-resolution X-ray tomography, which is non-destructive inspection method, has been utilized for observation of the materials structure. In synchrotron radiation X-ray tomography, more than 10,000 microstructural features, like precipitates, dispersions, compounds and hydrogen pores, can be observed in aluminium alloys. We have proposed employing these microstructural features as marker gauges to measure local strains, and then have developed a method to calculate the three-dimensional strain distribution by tracking the microstructural features. In this study, we report the development of local plastic strain as a function of the grain microstructure in an aluminium alloy by means of this three-dimensional strain measurement technique. Strongly heterogeneous strain development was observed during tensile loading to 30%. In other words, some parts of the sample deform little whereas another deforms a lot. However, strain in the whole specimen was keeping harmony. Comparing the microstructure with the strain concentration that is obtained by this method has a potential to reveal potential nucleation sites of recrystallization.
The effect of aluminium on the metallography of a nickel base removable partial denture casting alloy.
Lewis, A J
Three special nickel-chromium alloys were prepared in which the aluminum levels were adjusted both above and below that of a commercial nickel base dental casting alloy. Tensile and metallographic evaluation of representative samples of the alloys were made and the changes in the properties of the alloys are reported. PMID:285671
Formulation of anisotropic Hill criteria for the description of an aluminium alloy behaviour during the channel die compression test
Gavrus, A.; Francillette, H.
During the last years the study of the plastic deformation modes and the anisotropic mechanical behaviour of aluminium alloys have been the subject of many investigations. This paper deals with a phenomenological identification of an anisotropic Hill constitutive equation of aluminium AU4G samples using a channel die compression device at room temperature. By considering the different possible orientations of the samples in the channel die device, three initial textures, named ND (normal direction Z), LD (longitudinal direction X) and TD (transverse direction Y), were defined with the corresponding stresses {sigma}ND, {sigma}LD and {sigma}TD. To describe the anisotropy of the material, a quadratic Hill criteria is used. An Avrami type equation based on the mixture of the hardening and softening phenomena is used to describe variation of each stress component with the equivalent plastic strain. The identification of the parameters of the law is made using an identification software (OPTPAR) and a good correlation between the experimental stresses and computed ones is obtained. The variation of the Hill parameters with a proposed equivalent strain, describing the deformation history of the material, is analysed. Finally, using the expressions of F, G, H and N, the constitutive equation of the normal anisotropy in the plane XY is obtained.
Small Crack Growth and Fatigue Life Predictions for High-Strength Aluminium Alloys. Part 1; Experimental and Fracture Mechanics Analysis
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Wu, X. R.; Newman, J. C.; Zhao, W.; Swain, M. H.; Ding, C. F.; Phillips, E. P.
The small crack effect was investigated in two high-strength aluminium alloys: 7075-T6 bare and LC9cs clad alloy. Both experimental and analytical investigations were conducted to study crack initiation and growth of small cracks. In the experimental program, fatigue tests, small crack and large crack tests A,ere conducted under constant amplitude and Mini-TWIST spectrum loading conditions. A pronounced small crack effect was observed in both materials, especially for the negative stress ratios. For all loading conditions, most of the fatigue life of the SENT specimens was shown to be crack propagation from initial material defects or from the cladding layer. In the analysis program, three-dimensional finite element and A weight function methods were used to determine stress intensity factors and to develop SIF equations for surface and corner cracks at the notch in the SENT specimens. A plastisity-induced crack-closure model was used to correlate small and large crack data, and to make fatigue life predictions, Predicted crack-growth rates and fatigue lives agreed well with experiments. A total fatigue life prediction method for the aluminum alloys was developed and demonstrated using the crack-closure model.
The effect of cerium and lanthanum surface treatments on early stages of oxidation of A361 aluminium alloy at high temperature
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Pardo, A.; Feliú, S.; Merino, M. C.; Arrabal, R.; Matykina, E.
X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis has been used to study the surface of A361 aluminium alloy after electrodeposition of cerium and lanthanum compounds followed by oxidation tests in air at 100-500 °C for 2 h. Cerium and lanthanum oxide deposits are found on the β-AlFeSi second phase particles and to a lesser extent on the eutectic Al-Si areas, while the α-Al phase is covered with a thin aluminium oxide film. This uneven deposition may be related either to a preferential nucleation and growth process on active interfaces or to the differing electrical conductivity of the phases and intermetallic compounds of the alloy. Initial stages of oxidation of A361 alloy disclosed thickening of the aluminium oxide layer and Mg enrichment at the surface, especially above 400 °C. Rare earth deposits revealed two different effects: reduced Mg diffusion and enhanced thickening of the aluminium oxide film. A distinctive behaviour of Ce oxide appears at 300-500 °C related with Ce(III) to Ce(IV) transition.
Predicting the Surface Quality of Face Milled Aluminium Alloy Using a Multiple Regression Model and Numerical Optimization
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Simunovic, K.; Simunovic, G.; Saric, T.
The surface roughness is a very significant indicator of surface quality. It represents an essential exploitation requirement and influences technological time and costs, i.e. productivity. For that reason, the main objective of this paper is to analyse the influence of face milling cutting parameters (number of revolution, feed rate and depth of cut) on the surface roughness of aluminium alloy. Hence, a statistical (regression) model has been developed to predict the surface roughness by using the methodology of experimental design. Central composite design is chosen for fitting response surface. Also, numerical optimization considering two goals simultaneously (minimum propagation of error and minimum roughness) was performed throughout the experimental region. In this way, the settings of cutting parameters causing the minimum variability in response were determined for the estimated variations of the significant regression factors.
Aging effects of diamond reinforced aluminium alloys submitted to deep space real conditions. Structural, chemical and electrical degradation
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Korneli, Grigorov; Bouzekova-Penkova, Anna; Datcheva, Maria; Avdeev, George; Grushin, Valerii; Klimov, Stanislav
An aluminium alloy (Al-Cu-Zn-Mg) reinforced with ultra-dispersed diamond powder and tungsten (W), has been prepared in form of 7 cm bars and 4 mm diameter. One part of them stayed 2 years on satellite exposed to outer space, where the Sun activity and the background radiation were monitored. After satellite return both batches has been studied. Structural test, mainly micro-hardness together with detailed X-rays analyses was performed. The satellite makes a tour around the Earth each two hours, the temperature difference being circa 300oC. The micro-hardness being measured with Agilent G200 nano-indentor shows a significant drop of 25%. The XRD patterns are consistent with the previous results, states defects incorporation, and crystalline cells deterioration.
Effects of Welding Processes and Post-Weld Aging Treatment on Fatigue Behavior of AA2219 Aluminium Alloy Joints
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Malarvizhi, S.; Balasubramanian, V.
AA2219 aluminium alloy square butt joints without filler metal addition were fabricated using gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW), electron beam welding (EBW), and friction stir welding (FSW) processes. The fabricated joints were post-weld aged at 175 °C for 12 h. The effect of three welding processes and post-weld aging (PWA) treatment on the fatigue properties is reported. Transverse tensile properties of the welded joints were evaluated. Microstructure analysis was also carried out using optical and electron microscopes. It was found that the post-weld aged FSW joints showed superior fatigue performance compared to EBW and GTAW joints. This was mainly due to the formation of very fine, dynamically recrystallized grains and uniform distribution of fine precipitates in the weld region.
Influence of dispersoids on microstructure evolution and work hardening of aluminium alloys during tension and cold rolling
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Zhao, Qinglong; Holmedal, Bjørn; Li, Yanjun
The influence of dispersoids on work hardening of aluminium during tension and cold rolling has been studied by comparing Al-Mn alloys containing similar amounts of solutes but various dispersoid densities. The microstructure evolution with deformation strain was examined in transmission and scanning electron microscopy. It is found that a high density of fine dispersoids strengthens the materials significantly, but their strengthening effect diminishes as the strain increases. From a series of Bauschinger tests, it is found that the internal stress, due to particles, increases rapidly at the initial stage of deformation, but saturates at strains larger than 5%. It is concluded that the internal stress makes a small contribution to the work hardening and contributes to less than 10% of the total flow stress during monotonic loading at strains larger than 5%. The work-hardening behaviour has been correlated to the corresponding microstructure, and the strengthening mechanisms are discussed.
A corrosion resistant cerium oxide based coating on aluminum alloy 2024 prepared by brush plating
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Tang, Junlei; Han, Zhongzhi; Zuo, Yu; Tang, Yuming
Cerium oxide based coatings were prepared on AA2024 Al alloy by brush plating. The characteristic of this technology is that hydrogen peroxide, which usually causes the plating solution to be unstable, is not necessary in the plating electrolyte. The coating showed laminated structures and good adhesive strength with the substrate. X-ray diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis showed that the coatings were composed of Ce(III) and Ce(IV) oxides. The brush plated coatings on Al alloys improved corrosion resistance. The influence of plating parameters on structure and corrosion resistance of the cerium oxide based coating was studied.
Three-dimensional characterization of fatigue-relevant intermetallic particles in high-strength aluminium alloys using synchrotron X-ray nanotomography
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Nizery, E.; Proudhon, H.; Buffiere, J.-Y.; Cloetens, P.; Morgeneyer, T. F.; Forest, S.
Second-phase particles and small porosities are known to favour fatigue crack initiation in high-strength aluminium alloys 2050-T8 and 7050-T7451. Using high-resolution X-ray tomography (320 nm voxel size), with Paganin reconstruction algorithms, the probability that large clusters of particles contain porosities could be measured for the first time in 3D, as well as precise 3D size distributions. Additional holotomography imaging provided improved spatial resolution (50 nm voxel size), allowing to estimate the probability of finding cracked particles in the as-received material state. The extremely precise 3D shape (including cracks) as well as local chemistry of the particles has been determined. This experiment enabled unprecedented 3D identification of detrimental stress risers relevant for fatigue in as-received aluminium alloys.
Chromium-free conversion coatings based on inorganic salts (Zr/Ti/Mn/Mo) for aluminum alloys used in aircraft applications
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Santa Coloma, P.; Izagirre, U.; Belaustegi, Y.; Jorcin, J. B.; Cano, F. J.; Lapeña, N.
Novel chromium-free conversion coatings based on Zr/Ti/Mn/Mo compounds were developed at a pilot scale to improve the corrosion resistance of the AA2024-T3 and AA7075-T6 aluminum alloys for aircraft applications. The influence of the presence of Zr and Ti in the Zr/Ti/Mn/Mo conversion bath's formulation on the corrosion resistance of the coated alloys was investigated. The corrosion resistance provided by the conversion coatings was evaluated by salt spray exposure and potentiodynamic sweeps. Optical and scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM/EDS) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) operating in the Kelvin Probe mode (SKPFM) were used to provide microstructural information of the coated samples that achieved the best results in the corrosion tests. The salt spray test evidenced the higher corrosion resistance of the coated samples compared to the bare surfaces for both alloys. The potentiodynamic tests showed that the corrosion current density decreased for coated AA7075-T6 and AA2024-T3 alloys, which indicated an obvious improvement of the corrosion resistance with all the processes for both alloys. Although the corrosion resistance of the coated samples appeared to be higher for the alloy AA7075-T6 than for the alloy AA2024-T3, both alloys achieved the best corrosion protection with the coatings deposited from conversion bath formulations containing no titanium salts. The microscopy analysis on the coated AA7075-T6 samples revealed that a local deposition of Zr compounds and, possibly, an oxidation process occurred in the vicinity of the alloy's intermetallic particles. The amount of the Zr deposits at these locations increased with coating's formulations without Ti, which provided the best corrosion resistance. The Cr-free conversion coatings developed in this study for the AA7075-T6 and AA2024-T3 alloys do not meet yet the strict requirements of the aircraft industry. However, they significantly improved the corrosion
Effect of Silicon on Mechanical and Wear Properties of Aluminium-Alloyed Gray Cast Iron
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Vadiraj, Aravind; Tiwari, Shashank
Influence of Si on mechanical and wear properties of Al-alloyed gray cast iron has been investigated in this work. The Si content is varied from 1.27 to 2.1% in five different alloys with nearly 2% Al additions. Alloy with 2.1% Si and 1.9% Al shows maximum ferrite matrix with highest flake volume (17.3%). It also has the lowest hardness and strength. Rest of the alloys with Si content equal to or less than 1.7% and 2% Al content shows maximum pearlite matrix with higher hardness and strength. They have also shown a tendency for oxide formation and reduced wear during sliding probably due to higher friction heat and lower heat dissipation tendency due to lower flake volume and Al addition which reduces thermal conductivity of the matrix. The same oxide layer was not evident in alloy with 2.1% Si and 1.9% Al alloy having the highest flake volume (17.3%).
Evidence of [eta]' or ordered zone formation in aluminum alloy 7075 from differential scanning calorimetry. [Aluminium alloy 7075
Bartges, C.W. )
The development of high strength levels in Al-Mg-Zn-(Cu) alloys is dependent on the decomposition of the supersaturated solid solution ([alpha][sub ss]). The equilibrium phase, [eta], and the transition phase, [eta][prime], have compositions Mg(Zn, Al, Cu)[sub 2] and the GP Zones are solute rich clusters. Several authors have presented evidence that there is another precipitate which forms between the GP Zones and [eta][prime], though there is some controversy whether it is crystallographically distinct from the matrix, [eta][prime], or an ordered GP Zone. Regardless of their structure, these particles are seldom observed and are not usually considered in the decomposition of these alloys. Most of the previous observations of these particles have been the result of involved transmission electron microscopic and X-ray scattering experiments. This report shows they may also be detected using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Also significant is the fact that the particles were observed in AA 7075, an important commercial alloy. Lloyd and Chaturvedi also saw indications of [eta][prime] or ordered zones using DSC, but the results reported herein are different in several important respects. DSC traces of alloys aged for various times at room temperature and 121 C have shown there is at least one phase which can form during the decomposition of aluminum alloy 7075 that is not usually stated in the decomposition reaction. The results of previous studies suggest they may be ordered GP Zones or [eta][prime].
Aluminium/lithium alloy-CFRP hybrid laminate: Fabrication and properties
Freischmidt, G.; Coutts, R.S.P.; Janardhana, M.N.
Hybrid composite laminates of aluminum and aluminum/lithium alloy sheeting with unidirectional carbon fiber/epoxy plies have been fabricated to produce sheet materials of high strength, low density and reduced fatigue crack growth rate. In an arrangement of one layer of unidirectional carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) and 2 sheets of 2090-T3 aluminum alloy was used to give a material with a density of 2.20g/cm{sup 3}. Tensile test results gave an ultimate strength of 803MPa, a modulus of 75.7GPa and a 2% offset yield strength of 497MPa. Preliminary fatigue crack growth rate determinations on single edge notch (SEN) specimens show a marked reduction compared to monolithic 2090-T3. Other hybrid laminates using 2024-T3 alloy have also been made and tested. These laminates show reduced tensile properties, however, they appear to have lower fatigue crack growth rates than when using 2090T3 in hybrid form. The fabrication of hybrid laminates included the use of unsupported adhesive film to bond the precured unidirectional carbon fiber composite plies to the aluminum sheeting. This has left a distinct interphase region between the alloy and CFRP which is thought to improve properties through an effective load transfer.
Impact resistance and hardness modelling of Aluminium alloy welds using square-headed friction-stir welding tool
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Sudhakar, U.; Srinivas, J., Dr.
This paper proposes modelling and optimization issues relating to friction-stir welding process of aluminium alloys. A specially prepared SS tool of square headed pin profile with cylindrical shoulder is used with a vertical milling machine. Effects of process variables including tool rotation and tool velocity on the weld performance are studied in terms of impact strength and hardness. Three different rotational motions and three welding speeds (feeds) of tool are considered at constant axial load (depth of cut) condition and altogether nine experiments are conducted on a vertical milling machine with specially prepared fixture. Each weld sample is then tested for its impact strength (IS) and hardness independently. A model is developed to correlate the relations between the hardness/impact strength with tool rotation and weld speed using neural networks. The optimized process conditions are predicted to improvise the impact strength and hardness of the weld. Further, the morphology of the weld is studied using SEM to know the material flow characteristics.
Emission of nanoparticles during friction stir welding (FSW) of aluminium alloys.
Gomes, J F; Miranda, R M; Santos, T J; Carvalho, P A
Friction stir welding (FSW) is now well established as a welding process capable of joining some different types of metallic materials, as it was (1) found to be a reliable and economical way of producing high quality welds, and (2) considered a "clean" welding process that does not involve fusion of metal, as is the case with other traditional welding processes. The aim of this study was to determine whether the emission of particles during FSW in the nanorange of the most commonly used aluminum (Al) alloys, AA 5083 and AA 6082, originated from the Al alloy itself due to friction of the welding tool against the item that was being welded. Another goal was to measure Al alloys in the alveolar deposited surface area during FSW. Nanoparticles dimensions were predominantly in the 40- and 70-nm range. This study demonstrated that microparticles were also emitted during FSW but due to tool wear. However, the biological relevance and toxic manifestations of these microparticles remain to be determined. PMID:25072724
Computational prediction of the refinement of oxide agglomerates in a physical conditioning process for molten aluminium alloy
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Tong, M.; Jagarlapudi, S. C.; Patel, J. B.; Stone, I. C.; Fan, Z.; Browne, D. J.
Physically conditioning molten scrap aluminium alloys using high shear processing (HSP) was recently found to be a promising technology for purification of contaminated alloys. HSP refines the solid oxide agglomerates in molten alloys, so that they can act as sites for the nucleation of Fe-rich intermetallic phases which can subsequently be removed by the downstream de-drossing process. In this paper, a computational modelling for predicting the evolution of size of oxide clusters during HSP is presented. We used CFD to predict the macroscopic flow features of the melt, and the resultant field predictions of temperature and melt shear rate were transferred to a population balance model (PBM) as its key inputs. The PBM is a macroscopic model that formulates the microscopic agglomeration and breakage of a population of a dispersed phase. Although it has been widely used to study conventional deoxidation of liquid metal, this is the first time that PBM has been used to simulate the melt conditioning process within a rotor/stator HSP device. We employed a method which discretizes the continuous profile of size of the dispersed phase into a collection of discrete bins of size, to solve the governing population balance equation for the size of agglomerates. A finite volume method was used to solve the continuity equation, the energy equation and the momentum equation. The overall computation was implemented mainly using the FLUENT module of ANSYS. The simulations showed that there is a relatively high melt shear rate between the stator and sweeping tips of the rotor blades. This high shear rate leads directly to significant fragmentation of the initially large oxide aggregates. Because the process of agglomeration is significantly slower than the breakage processes at the beginning of HSP, the mean size of oxide clusters decreases very rapidly. As the process of agglomeration gradually balances the process of breakage, the mean size of oxide clusters converges to a
Observations on infiltration of silicon carbide compacts with an aluminium alloy
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Asthana, R.; Rohatgi, P. K.
The melt infiltration of ceramic particulates permits an opportunity to observe such fundamental materials phenomena as nucleation, dynamic wetting and growth in constrained environments. Experimental observations are presented on the infiltration behavior and matrix microstructures that form when porous compacts of platelet-shaped single crystals of alpha- (hexagonal) silicon carbide are infiltrated with a liquid 2014 Al alloy. The infiltration process involved counter gravity infiltration of suitably tamped and preheated compacts of silicon carbide platelets under an external pressure in a special pressure chamber for a set period, then by solidification of the infiltrant metal in the interstices of the bed at atmospheric pressure.
Gerard, Davy; Gray, Stephen K.
In this study, we present an overview of 'aluminium plasmonics', i.e. the study of both fundamental and practical aspects of surface plasmon excitations in aluminium structures, in particular thin films and metal nanoparticles. After a brief introduction noting both some recent and historical contributions to aluminium plasmonics, we discuss the optical properties of aluminium and aluminium nanostructures and highlight a few selected studies in a host of areas ranging from fluorescence to data storage.
Process-scale modelling of microstructure in direct chill casting of aluminium alloys
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Bedel, M.; Heyvaert, L.; Založnik, M.; Combeau, H.; Daloz, D.; Lesoult, G.
The mechanical properties of an alloy being related to its microstructure, the understanding of the mechanisms responsible for the grain structure formation in direct chill casting is crucial. However, the grain size prediction by modelling is difficult since a variety of multi-scale coupled phenomena have to be considered. Nucleation and growth of the grains are interrelated, and the macroscopic transport phenomena such as the motion of grains and inoculant particles with the flow impact the nucleation-gowth competition. Thus we propose to study the grain size distribution of a 5182 alloy industrial scale slab of 510 mm thickness, both non-inoculated and inoculated with Al-3Ti-1B, for which experimental grain size measurements are available. We use a volume-averaged two-phase multi-scale model that describes nucleation from inoculant particles and grain growth, fully coupled with macroscopic transport phenomena: fluid flow induced by natural convection and solidification shrinkage, heat, mass and solute mass transport, grains and inoculant particles motion. We analyze the effect of liquid and grain motion as the effect of grain morphology on microstructure formation and we show in which extent those phenomena are responsible for the grain size distribution observed experimentally. The effect of the refiner level is also studied.
``Long-life`` aluminium brazing alloys for automotive radiators -- a ten-year retrospective
Scott, A.C.; Woods, R.A.
A class of corrosion-resistant brazing sheet materials, generally referred to as ``long-life alloys,`` has been in widespread use in brazed aluminum automobile radiators for over ten years. K319 tube material was initially introduced in 1986 to address the problem of road-salt-induced, outside-in corrosion of tubes in vacuum-brazed aluminum radiators, The development history, metallurgy, and field performance of long-life radiator brazing sheet are reviewed. This material utilizes the familiar sacrificial layer concept to improve corrosion resistance; however, it is unusual in that the layer is not introduced by conventional cladding means during sheet manufacture, but rather develops in situ by metallurgical transformations which occur during the brazing cycle. The sacrificial layer, about 25 mV anodic to the core alloy, increases by an order of magnitude the time-to-perforation of radiator tube sheet tested in cyclic acidified salt spray (SWAAT), which mimics the corrosion morphology observed in the field. Radiators examined after ten years of field service show excellent corrosion resistance, as predicted by SWAAT.
[Comporison Sduty of Microstructure by Metallographicalk on the Polarized Light and Texture by XRD of CC 5083 and CC 5182 Aluminium Alloy after Cold Rolling and Recrystallization].
Chen, Ming-biao; Li, Yong-wei; Tan, Yuan-biao; Ma, Min; Wang, Xue-min; Liu, Wen-chang
At present the study of relation between microstructure, texture and performance of CC 5083 aluminium alloy after cold tolling and recrystallization processes is still finitude. So that the use of the CC 5083 aluminium alloy be influenced. Be cased into electrical furnace, hot up with unlimited speed followed the furnace hot up to different temperature and annealed 2h respectively, and be cased into salt-beth furnace, hot up quickly to different temperature and annealed 30 min respectively for CC 5083 and CC 5182 aluminum alloy after cold roling with 91.5% reduction. The microstructure be watched use metallographic microscope, the texture be inspected by XRD. The start temperature of recrystallization and grain grow up temperature within annealing in the electric furnace of CC 5083 aluminum alloy board is 343 degrees C, and the shap of grain after grow up with long strip (the innovation point ); The start temperature of recrystallization within annealling in the salt bath furnace of CC 5083 is 343 degrees C. The start temperature and end temperature of recrystallization within annealling of CC 5083 and CC 5182 aluminum alloy is 371 degrees C. The grain grow up outstanding of cold rooled CC 5152 aluminum alloy after annealed with 454 degrees C in the electric furnace and salt bath furnace. The start temperature of grain grow up of CC 5083 alluminurn alloy annealed in the electric furnace and salt bath furnace respectively is higher than the start temperature of grain grow up of CC 5182 alluminum alloy annealed in the electric furnace and salt bath furnace respectively. The strat temperature of recrystallization grain grow up is higher than which annealled with other three manner annealing process. The recrystallization temperature of CC 5182 annealed in the salt bath furnace is higher than which annealed in the electric furnace. The recrystallization temperature of the surface layer of CC 5083 and CC 5182 aluminum alloy is higher than the inner layer (the innovation
On the melt infiltration of copper coated silicon carbide with an aluminium alloy
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Asthana, R.; Rohatgi, P. K.
Pressure-assisted infiltration of porous compacts of Cu coated and uncoated single crystals of platelet shaped alpha (hexagonal) SiC was used to study infiltration dynamics and particulate wettability with a 2014 Al alloy. The infiltration lengths were measured for a range of experimental variables which included infiltration pressure, infiltration time, and SiC size. A threshold pressure (P(th)) for flow initiation through compacts was identified from an analysis of infiltration data; P(th) decreased while penetration lengths increased with increasing SiC size (more fundamentally, due to changes in interparticle pore size) and with increasing infiltration times. Cu coated SiC led to lower P(th) and 60-80 percent larger penetration lengths compared to uncoated SiC under identical processing conditions.
Fatigue properties of as-welded AA6005 and AA6082 aluminium alloys in T1 and T5 temper condition
Ranes, M.; Kluken, A.O.; Midling, O.T.
The present investigation was undertaken to determine the as-welded fatigue properties of AA6005 and AA6082 aluminium alloys in the T1 and T5 temper conditions. Extruded flat bars of the base materials were welded by means of the Metal Inert Gas (MIG), Friction Stir and Plasma-keyhole techniques. The latter technique was only employed for alloy AA6005. The weldments were subsequently fatigue tested at a load ratio of 0.5. The results revealed that the friction stir welds had fatigue properties superior to both the MIG and Plasma-keyhole welds. For alloy AA6005 the fatigue properties of the friction stir weld was close to the base material properties. The shortest fatigue life was exhibited by the MIG welds. The fatigue strength of these weldments appear to be affected by the base metal temper condition. For this reason, MIG welds on alloy AA6082 should be performed in the T5 temper condition, while alloy AA6005 should be welded in the T1 temper condition. Plasma-keyhole welds should be performed on T1 tempered material rather than on T5 tempered material. Repair welding of MIG welds on the T1 tempered base material resulted in improved fatigue properties of AA6082 weldments, while the fatigue strength of AA6005 weldments remained unaffected. The fatigue properties of MIG welds in alloy AA6082 correspond well with the static strength properties.
Effect of severe plastic deformation on microstructure and mechanical properties of magnesium and aluminium alloys in wide range of strain rates
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Skripnyak, Vladimir; Skripnyak, Evgeniya; Skripnyak, Vladimir; Vaganova, Irina; Skripnyak, Nataliya
Results of researches testify that a grain size have a strong influence on the mechanical behavior of metals and alloys. Ultrafine grained HCP and FCC metal alloys present higher values of the spall strength than a corresponding coarse grained counterparts. In the present study we investigate the effect of grain size distribution on the flow stress and strength under dynamic compression and tension of aluminium and magnesium alloys. Microstructure and grain size distribution in alloys were varied by carrying out severe plastic deformation during the multiple-pass equal channel angular pressing, cyclic constrained groove pressing, and surface mechanical attrition treatment. Tests were performed using a VHS-Instron servo-hydraulic machine. Ultra high speed camera Phantom V710 was used for photo registration of deformation and fracture of specimens in range of strain rates from 0,01 to 1000 1/s. In dynamic regime UFG alloys exhibit a stronger decrease in ductility compared to the coarse grained material. The plastic flow of UFG alloys with a bimodal grain size distribution was highly localized. Shear bands and shear crack nucleation and growth were recorded using high speed photography.
Elemental electron energy loss mapping of a precipitate in a multi-component aluminium alloy.
Mørtsell, Eva A; Wenner, Sigurd; Longo, Paolo; Andersen, Sigmund J; Marioara, Calin D; Holmestad, Randi
The elemental distribution of a precipitate cross section, situated in a lean Al-Mg-Si-Cu-Ag-Ge alloy, has been investigated in detail by electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) and aberration corrected high angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM). A correlative analysis of the EELS data is connected to the results and discussed in detail. The energy loss maps for all relevant elements were recorded simultaneously. The good spatial resolution allows elemental distribution to be evaluated, such as by correlation functions, in addition to being compared with the HAADF image. The fcc-Al lattice and the hexagonal Si-network within the precipitates were resolved by EELS. The combination of EELS and HAADF-STEM demonstrated that some atomic columns consist of mixed elements, a result that would be very uncertain based on one of the techniques alone. EELS elemental mapping combined with a correlative analysis have great potential for identification and quantification of small amounts of elements at the atomic scale. PMID:27124585
The effect of welding parameters on surface quality of AA6351 aluminium alloy
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Yacob, S.; MAli, M. A.; Ahsan, Q.; Ariffin, N.; Ali, R.; Arshad, A.; Wahab, M. I. A.; Ismail, S. A.; Roji, NS M.; Din, W. B. W.; Zakaria, M. H.; Abdullah, A.; Yusof, M. I.; Kamarulzaman, K. Z.; Mahyuddin, A.; Hamzah, M. N.; Roslan, R.
In the present work, the effects of gas metal arc welding-cold metal transfer (GMAW-CMT) parameters on surface roughness are experimentally assessed. The purpose of this study is to develop a better understanding of the effects of welding speed, material thickness and contact tip to work distance on the surface roughness. Experiments are conducted using single pass gas metal arc welding-cold metal transfer (GMAW-CMT) welding technique to join the material. The material used in this experiment was AA6351 aluminum alloy with the thickness of 5mm and 6mm. A Mahr Marsuft XR 20 machine was used to measure the average roughness (Ra) of AA6351 joints. The main and interaction effect analysis was carried out to identify process parameters that affect the surface roughness. The results show that all the input process parameters affect the surface roughness of AA6351 joints. Additionally, the average roughness (Ra) results also show a decreasing trend with increased of welding speed. It is proven that gas metal arc welding-cold metal transfer (GMAW-CMT)welding process has been successful in term of providing weld joint of good surface quality for AA6351 based on the low value surface roughness condition obtained in this setup. The outcome of this experimental shall be valuable for future fabrication process in order to obtained high good quality weld.
The effects of short pulse laser surface cleaning on porosity formation and reduction in laser welding of aluminium alloy for automotive component manufacture
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
AlShaer, A. W.; Li, L.; Mistry, A.
Laser welding of aluminium alloys typically results in porosity in the fusion zones, leading to poor mechanical and corrosion performances. Mechanical and chemical cleaning of surfaces has been used previously to remove contaminants for weld joint preparations. However, these methods are slow, ineffective (e.g. due to hydrogen trapping) or lead to environmental hazards. This paper reports the effects of short pulsed laser surface cleaning on porosity formation and reduction in laser welding of AC-170PX (AA6014) aluminium sheets (coated with Ti/Zr and lubricated using a dry lubricant AlO70) with two types of joints: fillet edge and flange couch, using an AA4043 filler wire for automotive component assembly. The effect of laser cleaning on porosity reduction during laser welding using a filler wire has not been reported before. In this work, porosity and weld fusion zone geometry were examined prior to and after laser cleaning. The nanosecond pulsed Nd:YAG laser cleaning was found to reduce porosity significantly in the weld fusion zones. For the fillet edge welds, porosity was reduced to less than 0.5% compared with 10-80% without laser cleaning. For flange couch welds, porosity was reduced to 0.23-0.8% with laser cleaning from 0.7% to 4.3% without laser cleaning. This has been found to be due to the elimination of contaminations and oxide layers that contribute to the porosity formation. The laser cleaning is based on thermal ablation. This research focuses on porosity reduction in laser welding of aluminium alloy. Weld quality was investigated for two joints, fillet edge and flange couch joints. The effect of laser cleaning on porosity reduction after welding was investigated. It was found that laser cleaning reduced porosity less than 1% in both joints. Weld dimensions and strength were evaluated and discussed for both types of joints.
Effects of processing parameters on the extrusion by continuous variable cross-section direct extrusion with 7A09 aluminium alloy
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Li, Feng; Wu, Hongbin; Qin, Minghan
In order to study the effects of processing parameters on the continuous variable cross-section direct extrusion (CVCDE), taking 7A09 aluminium alloy for example, the extrusion speed and forming temperature and the friction factor as key processing parameters are applied to research by finite element (FE) simulation. The research result showed that the extrusion speed had a significant influence on the maximum temperature of the billet, at the same time, both decreasing the friction factor and increasing forming temperature within a certain range were beneficial to reduce extrusion load. Both forming temperature and the extrusion speed were inversely linked to extrusion load, but the friction factor was directly proportional to extrusion load. Forming temperature had a far more important influence on extrusion load by comparison: when forming temperature increased from 380∘ to 430∘C, the peak value of extrusion load decreased by 25.6% and the flow uniformity of extruded product got improved. The process window based on both the press limit and surface defects limit was established and the most reasonable forming temperature was 405∘C under this process condition, which provided theoretical basis for formulation process of 7A09 aluminium alloy on the CVCDE extrusion.
The Role of Precipitates in the Behavior of Young's Modulus in Aluminum Alloys
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Villuendas, Aranzazu; Jorba, Jordi; Roca, Antoni
The behavior of Young's modulus, E, was determined in aluminum alloys such as AA7075 and AA2024 at room temperature under various thermomechanical treatments. E was almost 2 pct (AA7075) and 3 pct (AA2024) lower for these materials after solution heat treatment and quenching than after annealing. When the aging time was increased, values of E tended to approach the annealing values. The variation observed was attributed to structural changes during the thermal treatments. However, when the alloys were cold deformed before or after aging, no appreciable changes in E were observed. This behavior is quite different to that observed in cold-worked pure aluminum (and also in pure iron), in which E decreased to a minimum (7 to 10 pct reduction in values) and then partially recovered with additional cold working. The variation in behavior with cold working observed in a pure material and other materials that contain a second phase with nanometric precipitates was correlated with the density of dislocations and the length of the dislocation segments generated during the cold working process.
Friction Stir Welding of Age-Hardenable Aluminum Alloys: A Parametric Approach Using RSM Based GRA Coupled With PCA
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Vijayan, D.; Rao, V. S.
Age-hardenable aluminum alloys, primarily used in the aerospace, automobile and marine industries (2×××, 6××× and 7×××), can be welded using solid-state welding techniques. Friction stir welding is an emerging solid-state welding technique used to join both similar and dissimilar materials. The strength of a friction stir welded joint depends on the joining process parameters. Therefore, a combination of the statistical techniques of a response surface methodology based on a grey relational analysis coupled to a principal component analysis was proposed to select the process parameters suitable for joining AA 2024 and AA 6061 aluminum alloys via friction stir welding. The significant process parameters, such as rotational speed, welding speed, axial load and pin shapes (PS) were considered during the statistical experiment. The results indicate that the square PS plays a vital role and yields an ultimate tensile strength of 141 MPa for an elongation of 12 % versus cylinder and taper pin profiles. The root cause for joint strength loss and fracture mode was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy. Severe material flow during macro defects, such as pin holes and porosity, degrades the joint strength by approximately 44 % for AA 2024 and 51 % for AA 6061 fabricated FS-welded aluminum alloys relative to the base material. The results of this approach are useful for accurately controlling the response and optimize the process parameters.
Design and operation of an aluminium alloy tank using doped Na3AlH6 in kg scale for hydrogen storage
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Urbanczyk, R.; Peinecke, K.; Meggouh, M.; Minne, P.; Peil, S.; Bathen, D.; Felderhoff, M.
In this publication the authors present an aluminium alloy tank for hydrogen storage using 1921 g of Na3AlH6 doped with 4 mol% of TiCl3 and 8 mol% of activated carbon. The tank and the heat exchangers are manufactured by extrusion moulding of Al-Mg-Si based alloys. EN AW 6082 T6 alloy is used for the tank and a specifically developed alloy with a composition similar to EN AW 6060 T6 is used for the heat exchangers. The three heat exchangers have a corrugated profile to enhance the surface area for heat transfer. The doped complex hydride Na3AlH6 is densified to a powder density of 0.62 g cm-3. The hydrogenation experiments are carried out at 2.5 MPa. During one of the dehydrogenation experiments approximately 38 g of hydrogen is released, accounting for gravimetric hydrogen density of 2.0 mass-%. With this tank 15 hydrogenation and 16 dehydrogenation tests are carried out.
The Influence of Strain Rate Variations on the Appearance of Serrated Yielding in 2024-T3 Al-Clad Aluminium Alloy
Leacock, Alan G.; McMurray, Robert J.; Brown, D.; Poston, Ken
To avoid failure during the stretch forming process using manual control, machine operators tend to achieve the final form using a stop-start approach. It was observed that when approaching full form, stretcher-strain marks appeared on the surface of the part if the operator stopped and restarted the forming operation. In order to investigate this phenomenon, a series of tensile tests was conducted using two batches of 2024-T3 aluminium alloy. The specimens were tested using several different strain rates, representative of those used on the shop floor. Additional tests were conducted involving a series of pauses under displacement control at differing levels of strain and strain rate. In the uninterrupted tests for the two batches of 2024-T3 material tested, serrated yielding was observed just prior to failure. However for the tests in which there was a pause in displacement, the material consistently exhibited serrated yielding when the crosshead began to move again. These results indicate that the pause provides an opportunity for strain ageing and pinning of the dislocations resulting in serrated yielding of this alloy. In order to avoid serrated yielding, stretch forming operations using 2024-T3 aluminium should be conducted at a constant strain rate without interruption. This also has far reaching implications for those involved in the production and testing of these alloys. The test programme described represents an initial attempt to investigate a phenomenon noted during an industrial forming process and should be extended to analyse the affect of strain path changes on the occurrence of serrated yielding.
Wear and corrosion performance of two different tempers (T6 and T73) of AA7075 aluminium alloy after nitrogen implantation
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Abreu, C. M.; Cristóbal, M. J.; Figueroa, R.; Pena, G.
The present work reports the improvements in corrosion resistance and tribological properties achieved after Nitrogen ion implantation into aluminium alloy AA7075 subjected to two different tempers, T6 and T73. Nitrogen implantation at a nominal dose of 2 × 1017 ions/cm2 and at an accelerating voltage of 50 keV produced an increase of the surface hardness of the alloys up to a 130% in T6 samples and to 190% in T73 samples. The increase in hardness has a very positive effect on wear resistance as indicate the significant reduction of specific wear rate on both tempers (about -75% for T6 and -90% for T73 samples). Similarly, an improvement in corrosion properties of both tempers is confirmed by DC techniques, showing a decrease of the registered current density on potentiodynamic curves, and by the increase of impedance shown by AC techniques. This overall improvement in the alloy performance has been mainly attributed to the formation of a stoichiometric aluminium nitride layer (AlN), identified by XPS and GIXRD. The combination of EXCO immersion tests and electrochemical measurements allowed explaining the effect of AlN layer, which behave as a barrier delaying the onset of corrosion and slowing its progress. However, the implantation do not modified the corrosion morphology which seems to be determined mainly by the heat treating conditions. Thereby, in both tempers the localized attack starts at the intermetallic/matrix interface, but in T6 type specimens the progress of corrosion is clearly intergranular, while T73 specimens show the formation of clusters of small geometrical pits, probably related to the biggest MgZn2 strengthening precipitates.
In situ monitoring of corrosion mechanisms and phosphate inhibitor surface deposition during corrosion of zinc-magnesium-aluminium (ZMA) alloys using novel time-lapse microscopy.
Sullivan, James; Cooze, Nathan; Gallagher, Callum; Lewis, Tom; Prosek, Tomas; Thierry, Dominique
In situ time-lapse optical microscopy was used to examine the microstructural corrosion mechanisms in three zinc-magnesium-aluminium (ZMA) alloy coated steels immersed in 1% NaCl pH 7. Preferential corrosion of MgZn(2) lamellae within the eutectic phases was observed in all the ZMA alloys followed by subsequent dissolution of Zn rich phases. The total extent and rate of corrosion, measured using time-lapse image analysis and scanning vibrating electrode technique (SVET) estimated mass loss, decreased as Mg and Al alloying additions were increased up to a level of 3 wt% Mg and 3.7 wt% Al. This was probably due to the increased presence of MgO and Al(2)O(3) at the alloy surface retarding the kinetics of cathodic oxygen reduction. The addition of 1 × 10(-2) mol dm(-3) Na(3)PO(4) to 1% NaCl pH 7 had a dramatic influence on the corrosion mechanism for a ZMA with passivation of anodic sites through phosphate precipitation observed using time-lapse image analysis. Intriguing rapid precipitation of filamentous phosphate was also observed and it is postulated that these filaments nucleate and grow due to super saturation effects. Polarisation experiments showed that the addition of 1 × 10(-2) mol dm(-3) Na(3)PO(4) to the 1% NaCl electrolyte promoted an anodic shift of 50 mV in open circuit potential for the ZMA alloy with a reduction in anodic current of 2.5 orders of magnitude suggesting that it was acting primarily as an anodic inhibitor supporting the inferences from the time-lapse investigations. These phosphate additions resulted in a 98% reduction in estimated mass loss as measured by SVET demonstrating the effectiveness of phosphate inhibitors for this alloy system. PMID:25912828
The effect of surface pre-conditioning treatments on the local composition of Zr-based conversion coatings formed on aluminium alloys
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Cerezo, J.; Vandendael, I.; Posner, R.; de Wit, J. H. W.; Mol, J. M. C.; Terryn, H.
This study investigates the effect of different alkaline, acidic and thermal pre-conditioning treatments applied to different Al alloy surfaces. The obtained results are compared to the characteristics of Zr-based conversion coatings that were subsequently generated on top of these substrates. Focus is laid on typical elemental distributions on the sample surfaces, in particular on the amount of precipitated functional additives such as Cu species that are present in the substrate matrix as well as in the conversion bath solutions. To this aim, Field Emission Auger Electron spectra, depth profiles and surface maps with superior local resolution were acquired and compared to scanning electron microscopy images of the sample. The results show how de-alloying processes, which occur at and around intermetallic particles in the Al matrix during typical industrial alkaline or acidic cleaning procedures, provide a significant source of crystallization cores for any following coating processes. This is in particular due for Cu-species, as the resulting local Cu structures on the surface strongly affect the film formation and compositions of state-of-the-art Zr-based films. The findings are highly relevant for industrial treatments of aluminium surfaces, especially for those that undergo corrosion protection and painting process steps prior to usage.
The Effect of Cu and Ge Additions on Strength and Precipitation in a lean 6xxx Aluminium Alloy
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Mørtsell, E. A.; Marioara, C. D.; Andersen, S. J.; Røyset, J.; Reiso, O.; Holmestad, R.
It has been demonstrated that the strength loss in a lean Al-Mg-Si alloy due to solute reduction could be compensated by back-adding a lower at % of Ge and Cu. Nanosized precipitate needles which are the main cause of strength in these alloys, and material hardness has been correlated to parameters quantified by TEM. It was found that additions of Ge and Cu strongly affect the precipitation process by increasing precipitate density and reducing precipitate size. Investigations of precipitate atomic structure by HAADF-STEM indicated that they contain mixed areas of known phases and disordered regions. A hexagonal Si/Ge-network was found to be present in all precipitate cross sections.
Atom probe tomography study of the nanoscale heterostructure around an Al20Mn3Cu2 dispersoid in aluminum alloy 2024.
Parvizi, Reza; Marceau, Ross K W; Hughes, Anthony E; Tan, Mike Y; Forsyth, Maria
Atom probe tomography (APT) has been used to investigate the surface and sub-surface microstructures of aluminum alloy 2024 (AA2024) in the T3 condition (solution heat treated, cold worked, and naturally aged to a substantially stable condition). This study revealed surface Cu enrichment on the alloy matrix, local chemical structure around a dispersoid Al20Mn3Cu2 particle including a Cu-rich particle and S-phase particle on its external surface. Moreover, there was a significant level of hydrogen within the dispersoid, indicating that it is a hydrogen sink. These observations of the nanoscale structure around the dispersoid particle have considerable implications for understanding both corrosion and hydrogen embrittlement in high-strength aluminum alloys. PMID:25415412
Effect of casting/mould interfacial heat transfer during solidification of aluminium alloys cast in CO2-sand mould
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Kulkarni, S. N.; Radhakrishna, D. K.
The ability of heat to flow across the casting and through the interface from the casting to the mold directly affects the evolution of solidification and plays a notable role in determining the freezing conditions within the casting, mainly in foundry systems of high thermal diffusivity such as chill castings. An experimental procedure has been utilized to measure the formation process of an interfacial gap and metal-mould interfacial movement during solidification of hollow cylindrical castings of Al-4.5 % Cu alloy cast in CO2-sand mould. Heat flow between the casting and the mould during solidification of Al-4.5 % Cu alloy in CO2-sand mould was assessed using an inverse modeling technique. The analysis yielded the interfacial heat flux ( q), heat transfer coefficient ( h) and the surface temperatures of the casting and the mould during solidification of the casting. The peak heat flux was incorporated as a dimensionless number and modeled as a function of the thermal diffusivities of the casting and the mould materials. Heat flux transients were normalized with respect to the peak heat flux and modeled as a function of time. The heat flux model proposed was to estimate the heat flux transients during solidification of Al-4.5 % Cu alloy cast in CO2-sand moulds.
Cube texture formation during the early stages of recrystallization of Al-1%wt.Mn and AA1050 aluminium alloys
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Miszczyk, M. M.; Paul, H.
The cube texture formation during primary recrystallization was analysed in plane strain deformed samples of a commercial AA1050 alloy and an Al-1%wt.Mn model alloy single crystal of the Goss{110}<001> orientation. The textures were measured with the use of X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy equipped with an electron backscattered diffraction facility. After recrystallization of the Al-1%wt.Mn single crystal, the texture of the recrystallized grains was dominated by four variants of the S{123}<634> orientation. The cube grains were only sporadically detected by the SEM/EBSD system. Nevertheless, an increased density of <111> poles corresponding to the cube orientation was observed. The latter was connected with the superposition of four variants of the S{123}<634> orientation. This indicates that the cube texture after the recrystallization was a 'compromise texture'. In the case of the recrystallized AA1050 alloy, the strong cube texture results from both the increased density of the particular <111> poles of the four variants of the S orientation and the ∼40°(∼< 111>)-type rotation. The first mechanism transforms the Sdef-oriented areas into Srex ones, whereas the second the near S-oriented, as-deformed areas into near cube-oriented grains.
The attack of titanium-6 wt% aluminium-4 wt% vanadium alloy by a molten uranium-5.7 wt% manganese alloy at 1015 °C
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Moran, F. J.; Jarman, R. A.
The liquid metal corrosion (LMC) resistance of the alloy Ti-6 wt% Al-4 wt% V (IMI 318) in contact with molten U-5.7 wt% Mn has been assessed. The uranium alloy was melted at 1015 °C under vacuum in hemispherical IMI 318 alloy crucibles. The attack rate of the molten alloy on the IMI 318, for times up to 3 h, was estimated from metallography and by chemical analysis of the resolidified uranium melt. The mechanism of the LMC process was examined with optical and electron microscopy allied with EDAX and microhardness tests. Melt saturation occurred after one hour and titanium-rich (approximately 80 wt% Ti) dendrites began to nucleate and grow in the uranium melt. This result was predicted by the relevant equilibrium phase diagrams. During the LMC reaction, an interface (diffusion) layer grew in IMI 318 alloy where it contacted the uranium alloy melt. The levels of Ti and U changed with test time and distance across this interface, with the Ti level falling at the melt/IMI 318 surface and the U increasing at the same point. The mean LMC rate was initially rapid, 1.45 mm/h after 15 min but fell to 0.3 mm/h at 3 h. The conclusions were that the LMC reaction was diffusion-controlled, with the slow self-diffusion of β-titanium most likely to be the rate determining step. The reaction probably follows parabolic rate-kinetics as do other diffusion-controlled processes. The attack front was generally uniform with no clear evidence of preferential attack.
Investigation of the aluminium-aluminium oxide reversible transformation as observed by hot stage electron microscopy.
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Grove, C. A.; Judd, G.; Ansell, G. S.
Thin foils of high purity aluminium and an Al-Al2O3 SAP type of alloy were oxidised in a specially designed hot stage specimen chamber in an electron microscope. Below 450 C, amorphous aluminium oxide formed on the foil surface and was first detectable at foil edges, holes, and pits. Islands of aluminium then nucleated in this amorphous oxide. The aluminium islands displayed either a lateral growth with eventual coalescence with other islands, or a reoxidation process which caused the islands to disappear. The aluminium island formation was determined to be related to the presence of the electron beam. A mechanism based upon electron charging due to the electron beam was proposed to explain the nucleation, growth, coalescence, disappearance, and geometry of the aluminium islands.
Parameter Design in Fusion Welding of AA 6061 Aluminium Alloy using Desirability Grey Relational Analysis (DGRA) Method
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Adalarasan, R.; Santhanakumar, M.
In the present work, yield strength, ultimate strength and micro-hardness of the lap joints formed with Al 6061 alloy sheets by using the processes of Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding and Metal Inert Gas (MIG) welding were studied for various combinations of the welding parameters. The parameters taken for study include welding current, voltage, welding speed and inert gas flow rate. Taguchi's L9 orthogonal array was used to conduct the experiments and an integrated technique of desirability grey relational analysis was disclosed for optimizing the welding parameters. The ignored robustness in desirability approach is compensated by the grey relational approach to predict the optimal setting of input parameters for the TIG and MIG welding processes which were validated through the confirmation experiments.
Comparison between diffraction contrast tomography and high-energy diffraction microscopy on a slightly deformed aluminium alloy.
Renversade, Loïc; Quey, Romain; Ludwig, Wolfgang; Menasche, David; Maddali, Siddharth; Suter, Robert M; Borbély, András
The grain structure of an Al-0.3 wt%Mn alloy deformed to 1% strain was reconstructed using diffraction contrast tomography (DCT) and high-energy diffraction microscopy (HEDM). 14 equally spaced HEDM layers were acquired and their exact location within the DCT volume was determined using a generic algorithm minimizing a function of the local disorientations between the two data sets. The microstructures were then compared in terms of the mean crystal orientations and shapes of the grains. The comparison shows that DCT can detect subgrain boundaries with disorientations as low as 1° and that HEDM and DCT grain boundaries are on average 4 µm apart from each other. The results are important for studies targeting the determination of grain volume. For the case of a polycrystal with an average grain size of about 100 µm, a relative deviation of about ≤10% was found between the two techniques. PMID:26870379
The surface reactivity of a magnesium-aluminium alloy in acidic fluoride solutions studied by electrochemical techniques and XPS
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Verdier, S.; van der Laak, N.; Delalande, S.; Metson, J.; Dalard, F.
The behaviour of the 6% Al magnesium alloy AM60 in aqueous acid fluoride solutions was studied in situ by electrochemical techniques and the surface chemistry of the resulting film was examined by monochromatized XPS. The evolution of the corrosion potential and cyclic voltammograms showed that the aggressiveness of the solutions is mainly driven by their fluoride concentration, the pH having almost no detectable influence. The more concentrated and acidic fluoride solutions led to a higher degree of fluoride coverage of the surface. The surface film is composed of magnesium hydroxide and hydroxyfluoride Mg(OH) 2- xF x which approaches MgF 2 with increasing fluoride concentration in the film. The parameters governing the film evolution and their relation to surface reactions are discussed.
Comparison between diffraction contrast tomography and high-energy diffraction microscopy on a slightly deformed aluminium alloy
Renversade, Loïc; Quey, Romain; Ludwig, Wolfgang; Menasche, David; Maddali, Siddharth; Suter, Robert M.; Borbély, András
The grain structure of an Al–0.3 wt%Mn alloy deformed to 1% strain was reconstructed using diffraction contrast tomography (DCT) and high-energy diffraction microscopy (HEDM). 14 equally spaced HEDM layers were acquired and their exact location within the DCT volume was determined using a generic algorithm minimizing a function of the local disorientations between the two data sets. The microstructures were then compared in terms of the mean crystal orientations and shapes of the grains. The comparison shows that DCT can detect subgrain boundaries with disorientations as low as 1° and that HEDM and DCT grain boundaries are on average 4 µm apart from each other. The results are important for studies targeting the determination of grain volume. For the case of a polycrystal with an average grain size of about 100 µm, a relative deviation of about ≤10% was found between the two techniques. PMID:26870379
Stress Ratio Effects on Crack Opening Loads and Crack Growth Rates in Aluminum Alloy 2024
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Riddell, William T.; Piascik, Robert S.
The effects of stress ratio (R) and crack opening behavior on fatigue crack growth rates (da/dN) for aluminum alloy (AA) 2024-T3 were investigated using constant-delta K testing, closure measurements, and fractography. Fatigue crack growth rates were obtained for a range of delta K and stress ratios. Results show that constant delta K fatigue crack growth for R ranging from near 0 to 1 is divided into three regions. In Region 1, at low R, da/dN increases with increasing R. In Region 2, at intermediate R, fatigue crack growth rates are relatively independent of R. In Region 3, at high R, further increases in da/dN are observed with increasing R.
Controlled Release from Core-Shell Nanoporous Silica Particles for Corrosion Inhibition of Aluminum Alloys
Jiang, Xingmao; Jiang, Ying-Bing; Liu, Nanguo; Xu, Huifang; Rathod, Shailendra; Shah, Pratik; Brinker, C. Jeffrey
Ceriumore » m (Ce) corrosion inhibitors were encapsulated into hexagonally ordered nanoporous silica particles via single-step aerosol-assisted self-assembly. The core/shell structured particles are effective for corrosion inhibition of aluminum alloy AA2024-T3. Numerical simulation proved that the core-shell nanostructure delays the release process. The effective diffusion coefficient elucidated from release data for monodisperse particles in water was 1.0 × 10 − 14 m 2 s for Ce 3+ compared to 2.5 × 10 − 13 m 2 s for NaCl. The pore size, pore surface chemistry, and the inhibitor solubility are crucial factors for the application. Microporous hydrophobic particles encapsulating a less soluble corrosion inhibitor are desirable for long-term corrosion inhibition.« less
Aluminium alloyed iron-silicide/silicon solar cells: A simple approach for low cost environmental-friendly photovoltaic technology
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Kumar Dalapati, Goutam; Masudy-Panah, Saeid; Kumar, Avishek; Cheh Tan, Cheng; Ru Tan, Hui; Chi, Dongzhi
This work demonstrates the fabrication of silicide/silicon based solar cell towards the development of low cost and environmental friendly photovoltaic technology. A heterostructure solar cells using metallic alpha phase (α-phase) aluminum alloyed iron silicide (FeSi(Al)) on n-type silicon is fabricated with an efficiency of 0.8%. The fabricated device has an open circuit voltage and fill-factor of 240 mV and 60%, respectively. Performance of the device was improved by about 7 fold to 5.1% through the interface engineering. The α-phase FeSi(Al)/silicon solar cell devices have promising photovoltaic characteristic with an open circuit voltage, short-circuit current and a fill factor (FF) of 425 mV, 18.5 mA/cm2, and 64%, respectively. The significant improvement of α-phase FeSi(Al)/n-Si solar cells is due to the formation p+-n homojunction through the formation of re-grown crystalline silicon layer (~5-10 nm) at the silicide/silicon interface. Thickness of the regrown silicon layer is crucial for the silicide/silicon based photovoltaic devices. Performance of the α-FeSi(Al)/n-Si solar cells significantly depends on the thickness of α-FeSi(Al) layer and process temperature during the device fabrication. This study will open up new opportunities for the Si based photovoltaic technology using a simple, sustainable, and los cost method.
Aluminium alloyed iron-silicide/silicon solar cells: A simple approach for low cost environmental-friendly photovoltaic technology
Kumar Dalapati, Goutam; Masudy-Panah, Saeid; Kumar, Avishek; Cheh Tan, Cheng; Ru Tan, Hui; Chi, Dongzhi
This work demonstrates the fabrication of silicide/silicon based solar cell towards the development of low cost and environmental friendly photovoltaic technology. A heterostructure solar cells using metallic alpha phase (α-phase) aluminum alloyed iron silicide (FeSi(Al)) on n-type silicon is fabricated with an efficiency of 0.8%. The fabricated device has an open circuit voltage and fill-factor of 240 mV and 60%, respectively. Performance of the device was improved by about 7 fold to 5.1% through the interface engineering. The α-phase FeSi(Al)/silicon solar cell devices have promising photovoltaic characteristic with an open circuit voltage, short-circuit current and a fill factor (FF) of 425 mV, 18.5 mA/cm2, and 64%, respectively. The significant improvement of α-phase FeSi(Al)/n-Si solar cells is due to the formation p+−n homojunction through the formation of re-grown crystalline silicon layer (~5–10 nm) at the silicide/silicon interface. Thickness of the regrown silicon layer is crucial for the silicide/silicon based photovoltaic devices. Performance of the α-FeSi(Al)/n-Si solar cells significantly depends on the thickness of α-FeSi(Al) layer and process temperature during the device fabrication. This study will open up new opportunities for the Si based photovoltaic technology using a simple, sustainable, and los cost method. PMID:26632759
Evidence of aluminium accumulation in aluminium welders.
Elinder, C G; Ahrengart, L; Lidums, V; Pettersson, E; Sjögren, B
Using atomic absorption spectrometry the aluminium concentrations in blood and urine and in two iliac bone biopsies obtained from welders with long term exposure to fumes containing aluminium were measured. The urinary excretion of two workers who had welded for 20 and 21 years varied between 107 and 351 micrograms Al/l, more than 10 times the concentration found in persons without occupational exposure. Urinary aluminium excretion remained high many years after stopping exposure. Blood and bone aluminium concentrations (4-53 micrograms Al/l and 18-29 micrograms Al/g respectively) were also raised but not to the same extent as urine excretion. It is concluded that long term exposure to aluminium by inhalation gives rise to accumulation of aluminium in the body and skeleton of health persons, and that the elimination of retained aluminium is very slow, in the order of several years. PMID:1954151
IEC 61267: Feasibility of type 1100 aluminium and a copper/aluminium combination for RQA beam qualities.
Leong, David L; Rainford, Louise; Zhao, Wei; Brennan, Patrick C
In the course of performance acceptance testing, benchmarking or quality control of X-ray imaging systems, it is sometimes necessary to harden the X-ray beam spectrum. IEC 61267 specifies materials and methods to accomplish beam hardening and, unfortunately, requires the use of 99.9% pure aluminium (Alloy 1190) for the RQA beam quality, which is expensive and difficult to obtain. Less expensive and more readily available filters, such as Alloy 1100 (99.0% pure) aluminium and copper/aluminium combinations, have been used clinically to produce RQA series without rigorous scientific investigation to support their use. In this paper, simulation and experimental methods are developed to determine the differences in beam quality using Alloy 1190 and Alloy 1100. Additional simulation investigated copper/aluminium combinations to produce RQA5 and outputs from this simulation are verified with laboratory tests using different filter samples. The results of the study demonstrate that although Alloy 1100 produces a harder beam spectrum compared to Alloy 1190, it is a reasonable substitute. A combination filter of 0.5 mm copper and 2 mm aluminium produced a spectrum closer to that of Alloy 1190 than Alloy 1100 with the added benefits of lower exposures and lower batch variability. PMID:26776501
Intrinsic fatigue crack growth rates for Al-Li-Cu-Mg alloys in vacuum
Slavik, D.C.; Gangloff, R.P.; Starke, E.A. Jr ); Blankenship, C.P. Jr )
The influences of microstructure and deformation mode on inert environment intrinsic fatigue crack propagation were investigated for Al-Li-Cu-Mg alloys AA2090, AA8090, and X2095 compared to AA2024. The amount of coherent shearable [delta][prime] (Al[sub 3]Li) precipitates and extent of localized planar slip deformation were reduced by composition (increased Cu/Li in X2095) and heat treatment (double aging of AA8090). Intrinsic growth rates, obtained at high constant K[sub max] to minimize crack closure and in vacuum to eliminate any environmental effect, were alloy dependent; da/dN varied up to tenfold based on applied [Delta]K or [Delta]K/E. When compared based on a crack tip cyclic strain or opening displacement parameter ([Delta]K/([sigma][sub ys]E)[sup 1/2]), growth rates were equivalent for alloys except X2095-T8 which exhibited unique fatigue crack growth resistance. Tortuous fatigue crack profiles and large fracture surface facets were observed for each Al-Li alloy independent of the precipitates present, particularly [sigma][prime], and the localized slip deformation structure. Reduced fatigue crack propagation rates for X2095 in vacuum are not explained by either residual crack closure or slip reversibility arguments; the origin of apparent slip band facets in a homogeneous slip alloy is unclear. Better understanding of crack tip damage accumulation and fracture surface facet crystallography is required for Al-Li alloys with varying slip localization.
Intrinsic fatigue crack growth rates for Al-Li-Cu-Mg alloys in vacuum
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Slavik, D. C.; Blankenship, C. P., Jr.; Starke, E. A., Jr.; Gangloff, R. P.
The influences of microstructure and deformation mode on inert environment intrinsic fatigue crack propagation were investigated for Al-Li-Cu-Mg alloys AA2090, AA8090, and X2095 compared to AA2024. The amount of coherent shearable delta-prime (Al3Li) precipitates and extent of localized planar slip deformation were reduced by composition (increased Cu/Li in X2095) and heat treatment (double aging of AA8090). Intrinsic growth rates, obtained at high constant K(max) to minimize crack closure and in vacuum to eliminate any environmental effect, were alloy dependent; da/dN varied up to tenfold based on applied Delta-K or Delta-K/E. When compared based on a crack tip cyclic strain or opening displacement parameter, growth rates were equivalent for all alloys except X2095-T8, which exhibited unique fatigue crack growth resistance. Tortuous fatigue crack profiles and large fracture surface facets were observed for each Al-Li alloy independent of the precipitates present, particularly delta-prime, and the localized slip deformation structure. Reduced fatigue crack propagation rates for X2095 in vacuum are not explained by either residual crack closure or slip reversibility arguments; the origin of apparent slip band facets in a homogeneous slip alloy is unclear.
A lead-film electrode on an aluminium substrate to serve as a lead-acid battery plate
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Yolshina, L. A.; Kudyakov, V. Ya; Zyryanov, V. G.
Compact lead layers have been deposited on the surfaces of aluminium and aluminium alloys. These coatings are uniform in thickness and have high porosity. The lead-film electrode produced on aluminium plate can be used as the positive electrode in a lead-acid battery.
Effects of aluminium surface morphology and chemical modification on wettability
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Rahimi, M.; Fojan, P.; Gurevich, L.; Afshari, A.
Aluminium alloys are some of the predominant metals in industrial applications such as production of heat exchangers, heat pumps. They have high heat conductivity coupled with a low specific weight. In cold working conditions, there is a risk of frost formation on the surface of aluminium in the presence of water vapour, which can lead to the deterioration of equipment performance. This work addresses the methods of surface modification of aluminium and their effect of the underlying surface morphology and wettability, which are the important parameters for frost formation. Three groups of real-life aluminium surfaces of different morphology: unpolished aluminium, polished aluminium, and aluminium foil, were subjected to surface modification procedures which involved the formation of a layer of hydrophilic hyperbranched polyethyleneglycol via in situ polymerization, molecular vapour deposition of a monolayer of fluorinated silane, and a combination of those. The effect of these surface modification techniques on roughness and wettability of the aluminium surfaces was elucidated by ellipsometry, contact angle measurements and atomic force microscopy. We demonstrated that by employing different types of surface modifications the contact angle of water droplets on aluminium samples can be varied from 12° to more than 120°. A crossover from Cassie-Baxter to Wenzel regime upon changing the surface roughness was also observed.
Joining of aluminium structures with aluminium foams
Burzer, J.; Bernard, T.; Bergmann, H.W.
The aim of this work is the evaluation of new construction elements for applications in transportation industry which are based on new designs incorporating commonly applied aluminium structures and aluminium foams. The work includes the characterization of the joining process, the joining mechanism and the mechanical properties of the joining zone. A testing method for the joints is developed which is based on a common tensile test in order to evaluate the influence of the main laser welding parameters on the toughness of the joints and to afford a comparison between laser beam welding and gluing process. The analysis of the joining mechanism is investigated with the help of metallographic studies. In addition, the energy absorption properties of aluminium hollows filled and joined with foam structures are characterized.
Oxide film on 5052 aluminium alloy: Its structure and removal mechanism by activated CsF-AlF3 flux in brazing
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Xiao, Bing; Wang, Dongpo; Cheng, Fangjie; Wang, Ying
The oxide-film structure on the 5052 Al alloy and the film-removal mechanism by activated CsF-AlF3 flux in brazing were studied. Characterisation of the oxide film shows that thermally activated Mg, segregated from the alloy's interior, was significantly enriched and oxidised during medium-temperature brazing. Thus, the outer oxide surface consisted of the amorphous MgO-like phase, and the interior of the oxide film comprised mainly the amorphous MgO-like phase and dispersely distributed and less-ordered MgAl2O4. The MgO-like phase was the main obstacle to oxide removal in brazing. The activated ZnCl2-containing CsF-AlF3 flux effectively removed the oxide film, and the 5052 Al alloy was successfully brazed by the Zn-Al filler metal and activated flux. When Zn2+ in the molten flux permeated the oxide film through cracks, its chemical reaction with the Al substrate loosened the oxide film, which was eventually pushed out as the filler metal spread over the alloy surface.
A hot-cracking mitigation technique for welding high-strength aluminum alloy
Yang, Y.P.; Dong, P.; Zhang, J.; Tian, X.
A hot-cracking mitigation technique for gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) of high-strength aluminum alloy 2024 is presented. The proposed welding technique incorporates a trailing heat sink (an intense cooling source) with respect to the welding torch. The development of the mitigation technique was based on both detailed welding process simulation using advanced finite element techniques and systematic laboratory experiments. The finite element methods were used to investigate the detailed thermomechanical behavior of the weld metal that undergoes the brittle temperature range (BTR) during welding. As expected, a tensile deformation zone within the material BTR region was identified behind the weld pool under conventional GTA welding process conventional GTA welding process conditions for the aluminum alloy studied. To mitigate hot cracking, the tensile zone behind the weld pool must be eliminated or reduce to a satisfactory level if the weld metal hot ductility cannot be further improved. With detailed computational modeling, it was found that by the introduction of a trailing heat sink at some distance behind the welding arc, the tensile strain rate with respect to temperature in the zone encompassing the BTR region can be significantly reduced. A series of parametric studies were also conducted to derive optimal process parameters for the trailing heat sink. The experimental results confirmed the effectiveness of the trailing heat sink technique. With a proper implementation of the trailing heat sink method, hot cracking can be completely eliminated in welding aluminum alloy 2024 (AA 2024).
Pigment-derived inhibitors for aluminum alloy 2024-T3
Cook, R.L. Jr.; Taylor, S.R.
Inhibitor characteristics of 27 compounds considered as possible replacements for chromate pigments in aerospace paint were investigated. These compounds were tested and screened in solution and not as actual paint additives. In initial testing, aluminum alloy (AA) 2024-T3 (UNS A92024) samples were exposed to 0.6 M sodium chloride (NaCl, pH adjusted to 7, T = 23 C) with 3.4 mM of the candidate compound dissolved in solution. Corrosion inhibition characteristics were assessed via electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) performed over 10 days, and the statistical analysis of pit depths was analyzed at the conclusion of each exposure. Promising candidates then were exposed to more extreme environments to simulate possible service-life conditions. These environments included unbuffered 0.6 M NaCl initially adjusted to pH 3, T = 23 C and pH 10, T = 23 C. Several candidate inhibitors appeared promising: barium metaborate, cerium chloride, cerium oxalate, lanthanum chloride, and sodium metavanadate. Under the conditions of these tests, sodium metavanadate consistently displayed the best performance. EIS data indicated the corrosion performance of sodium metavanadata was within an order of magnitude of sodium chromate (Na{sub 2}CrO{sub 4}), while pit depth values for metavanadate were comparable to those observed for Na{sub 2}CrO{sub 4}. Rankings of inhibitor performance as determined by EIS was supported by the extreme value analysis of pit depth.
Investigation of surface roughness and tool wear length with varying combination of depth of cut and feed rate of Aluminium alloy and P20 steel machining.
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Varmma a/l Suparmaniam, Madan; Razlan Yusoff, Ahmad
High-speed milling technique is often used in many industries to boost productivity of the manufacturing of high-technology components. The occurrence of wear highly limits the efficiency and accuracy of high- speed milling operations. In this paper, analysis of high-speed milling process parameters such as material removal rate, cutting speed, feed rate and depth of cut carried out by implemented to conventional milling. This experiment investigate the effects of varying combination of depth of cut and feed rate to tool wear rate length using metallurgical microscope and surface roughness using portable surface roughness tester after end milling of Aluminium and P20 steel. Results showed that feed rate significantly influences the surface roughness value while depth of cut does not as the surface roughness value keep increasing with the increase of feed rate and decreasing depth of cut. Whereas, tool wear rate almost remain unchanged indicates that material removal rate strongly contribute the wear rate. It believe that with no significant tool wear rate the results of this experiment are useful by showing that HSM technique is possible to be applied in conventional machine with extra benefits of high productivity, eliminating semi-finishing operation and reducing tool load for finishing.
The effect of MAO processing time on surface properties and low temperature infrared emissivity of ceramic coating on aluminium 6061 alloy
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Al Bosta, Mohannad M. S.; Ma, Keng-Jeng; Chien, Hsi-Hsin
MAO ceramic coatings were prepared on aluminium 6061 surfaces at different treating durations (10, 20, ... 60 min), using alkali silicate electrolyte and pulsed bipolar current mode. The surface microstructures and properties were studied using SEM, XRD, EDX and a surface roughness tester. Image-Pro Plus and MATCH! softwares were used to analyze SEM micrographs and XRD results, respectively. The infrared emissivities of the ceramic coatings were measured at the 70 °C using FTIR spectrometer. We found a linear correlation between the volcano-like area and the surface roughness. The compositions and phases were associated with the volcano-like population and area. The curve of IR spectral emissivity was influenced by surface roughness, γ-alumina, sillimanite and cristobalite phases. The emissivity was enhanced by the surface roughness in the ranges 4.0-9.6 μm and 10.5-14.8 μm. In the range 7.0-8.0 μm, α-alumina and sillimanite phases enhanced the emissivity, while the cristobalite has a negative impact to the emissivity. A negative contributions were found for α-alumina in the region 9.6-16.0 μm and for the surface thickness in the region 15.0-16.0 μm. Overall, the average of long wave infrared (LWIR) emissivity ranged from 87.05% to 91.65%.
Diamond grooving of rapidly solidified optical aluminium
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Abou-El-Hossein, Khaled; Hsu, Wei-Yao; Ghobashy, Sameh; Cheng, Yuan-Chieh; Mkoko, Zwelinzima
Traditional optical aluminium grades such as Al 6061 are intensively used for making optical components for applications ranging from mould insert fabrication to laser machine making. However, because of their irregular microstructure and relative inhomogeneity of material properties at micro scale, traditional optical aluminium may exhibit some difficulties when ultra-high precision diamond turned. Inhomogeneity and micro-variation in the material properties combined with uneven and coarse microstructure may cause unacceptable surface finish and accelerated tool wear, especially in grooving operation when the diamond tool edge is fully immersed in the material surface. Recently, new grades of optical aluminium that are featured by their ultra-fine microstructure and improved material properties have been developed to overcome the problem of high tool wear rates. The new aluminium grades have been developed using rapid solidification process which results in extremely small grain sizes combined with improved mechanical properties. The current study is concerned with investigating the performance of single-point diamond turning when grooving two grades of rapidly solidified aluminium (RSA) grades: RSA905 which is a high-alloyed aluminium grade and RSA443 which has a high silicon content. In this study, two series of experiments employed to create radial microgrooves on the two RSA grades. The surface roughness obtained on the groove surface is measured when different combinations of cutting parameters are used. Cutting speed is varied while feed rate and depth of cut were kept constant. The results show that groove surface roughness produced on RSA443 is higher than that obtained on RSA905. Also, the paper reports on the effect of cutting speed on surface roughness for each RSA grade.
Volatilisation and oxidation of aluminium scraps fed into incineration furnaces
Biganzoli, Laura; Gorla, Leopoldo; Nessi, Simone; Grosso, Mario
Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Aluminium packaging partitioning in MSW incineration residues is evaluated. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The amount of aluminium packaging recoverable from the bottom ashes is evaluated. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Aluminium packaging oxidation rate in the residues of MSW incineration is evaluated. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer 80% of aluminium cans, 51% of trays and 27% of foils can be recovered from bottom ashes. - Abstract: Ferrous and non-ferrous metal scraps are increasingly recovered from municipal solid waste incineration bottom ash and used in the production of secondary steel and aluminium. However, during the incineration process, metal scraps contained in the waste undergo volatilisation and oxidation processes, which determine a loss of their recoverable mass. The present paper evaluates the behaviour of different types of aluminium packaging materials in a full-scale waste to energy plant during standard operation. Their partitioning and oxidation level in the residues of the incineration process are evaluated, together with the amount of potentially recoverable aluminium. About 80% of post-consumer cans, 51% of trays and 27% of foils can be recovered through an advanced treatment of bottom ash combined with a melting process in the saline furnace for the production of secondary aluminium. The residual amount of aluminium concentrates in the fly ash or in the fine fraction of the bottom ash and its recovery is virtually impossible using the current eddy current separation technology. The average oxidation levels of the aluminium in the residues of the incineration process is equal to 9.2% for cans, 17.4% for trays and 58.8% for foils. The differences between the tested packaging materials are related to their thickness, mechanical strength and to the alloy.
Surface roughness when diamond turning RSA 905 optical aluminium
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Otieno, T.; Abou-El-Hossein, K.; Hsu, W. Y.; Cheng, Y. C.; Mkoko, Z.
Ultra-high precision machining is used intensively in the photonics industry for the production of various optical components. Aluminium alloys have proven to be advantageous and are most commonly used over other materials to make various optical components. Recently, the increasing demand from optical systems for optical aluminium with consistent material properties has led to the development of newly modified grades of aluminium alloys produced by rapid solidification in the foundry process. These new aluminium grades are characterised by their finer microstructures and refined mechanical and physical properties. However the machining database of these new optical aluminium grades is limited and more research is still required to investigate their machinability performance when they are diamond turned in ultrahigh precision manufacturing environment. This work investigates the machinability of rapidly solidified aluminium RSA 905 by varying a number of diamond-turning cutting parameters and measuring the surface roughness over a cutting distance of 4 km. The machining parameters varied in this study were the cutting speed, feed rate and depth of cut. The results showed a common trend of decrease in surface roughness with increasing cutting distance. The lowest surface roughness Ra result obtained after 4 km in this study was 3.2 nm. This roughness values was achieved using a cutting speed of 1750 rpm, feed rate of 5 mm/min and depth of cut equal to 25 μm.
On the effect of silicon and phosphorus during the precipitation of kappa-carbide in Iron-Manganese-Aluminium-Carbon alloys
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Bartlett, Laura Nicole
Implementation of lightweight high manganese and aluminum steels for use in high energy absorbing applications requires a detailed knowledge of how alloying additions and impurities affect age hardening and high strain rate fracture properties. Dynamic fracture toughness is an important design criterion but has not been reported previously in these alloys. In addition, previous studies have shown that silicon and phosphorus increased the strength and aged hardness; however, the mechanism was unknown. This research mainly focuses on the effect of silicon and phosphorus on the precipitation of kappa-carbide and alloy partitioning during aging. Short range ordering, SRO, of Fe-Al-C into relative atomic positions described by the E21 superlattice structure preceded and occurred concurrent to spinodal decomposition. Short range diffusion of phosphorus increased the kinetics of ordering resulting in a decrease in the time required for subsequent spinodal decomposition and an increase the amplitude of carbon concentration with time. Silicon increased the strength and hardness as a result of increased carbon partitioning into the kappa-carbide during aging. Dynamic fracture toughness was found to depend upon aluminum and carbon. Increasing the amount of solid solution carbon increased the dynamic fracture toughness in solution treated specimens. However, increasing carbon in aged specimens increased the amount of kappa-carbide and produced brittle fracture. Additions of aluminum from three to nine weight percent decreased toughness regardless of the heat treatment. Dynamic fracture toughness was a strong function of AlN content. A good combination of high strength and dynamic toughness with a corresponding density reduction of 10 to 12% is obtained with aluminum additions between 6 and 7% and carbon below 1.2%.
The effect orientation of features in reconstructed atom probe data on the resolution and measured composition of T1 plates in an A2198 aluminium alloy.
Mullin, Maria A; Araullo-Peters, Vicente J; Gault, Baptiste; Cairney, Julie M
Artefacts in atom probe tomography can impact the compositional analysis of microstructure in atom probe studies. To determine the integrity of information obtained, it is essential to understand how the positioning of features influences compositional analysis. By investigating the influence of feature orientation within atom probe data on measured composition in microstructural features within an AA2198 Al alloy, this study shows differences in the composition of T1 (Al2CuLi) plates that indicates imperfections in atom probe reconstructions. The data fits a model of an exponentially-modified Gaussian that scales with the difference in evaporation field between solutes and matrix. This information provides a guide for obtaining the most accurate information possible. PMID:25896290
Fatal aluminium phosphide poisoning
Mittal, Sachin; Rani, Yashoda
Aluminium phosphide (AlP) is a cheap solid fumigant and a highly toxic pesticide which is commonly used for grain preservation. AlP has currently aroused interest with a rising number of cases in the past four decades due to increased use for agricultural and non-agricultural purposes. Its easy availability in the markets has increased also its misuse for committing suicide. Phosphine inhibits cellular oxygen utilization and can induce lipid peroxidation. Poisoning with AlP has often occurred in attempts to commit suicide, and that more often in adults than in teenagers. This is a case of suicidal consumption of aluminium phosphide by a 32-year-old young medical anesthetist. Toxicological analyses detected aluminium phosphide. We believe that free access of celphos tablets in grain markets should be prohibited by law. PMID:27486362
Study on aluminium-based single films.
Vinod Kumar, G S; García-Moreno, F; Babcsán, N; Brothers, A H; Murty, B S; Banhart, J
In the present paper the authors studied isolated metallic films made from the same material used for making metallic foams, and then characterised their properties. Metal films were made from a liquid aluminium alloy reinforced with ceramic particles of known concentration. Melts without such particles were also investigated. It is shown that stable films could not be made from Al-Si alloy having no particles, and just extremely thin and fragile films could be made from commercially-pure Al. In contrast, aluminium alloys containing particles such as SiC and TiB(2) allowed pulling thin, stable films, which did not rupture. Significant thinning of films was observed when the particle concentration in the melt decreased. By in situ X-ray monitoring of liquid films during pulling, film thickness and drainage effects within the liquid film could be studied. The morphology and microstructure of films was characterised after solidification. Our work shows that the question of how foams are stabilised can be studied using a simplified system such as a film, instead of having to deal with the multitude of different structural elements present in a foam. PMID:18060172
Volatilisation and oxidation of aluminium scraps fed into incineration furnaces.
Biganzoli, Laura; Gorla, Leopoldo; Nessi, Simone; Grosso, Mario
Ferrous and non-ferrous metal scraps are increasingly recovered from municipal solid waste incineration bottom ash and used in the production of secondary steel and aluminium. However, during the incineration process, metal scraps contained in the waste undergo volatilisation and oxidation processes, which determine a loss of their recoverable mass. The present paper evaluates the behaviour of different types of aluminium packaging materials in a full-scale waste to energy plant during standard operation. Their partitioning and oxidation level in the residues of the incineration process are evaluated, together with the amount of potentially recoverable aluminium. About 80% of post-consumer cans, 51% of trays and 27% of foils can be recovered through an advanced treatment of bottom ash combined with a melting process in the saline furnace for the production of secondary aluminium. The residual amount of aluminium concentrates in the fly ash or in the fine fraction of the bottom ash and its recovery is virtually impossible using the current eddy current separation technology. The average oxidation levels of the aluminium in the residues of the incineration process is equal to 9.2% for cans, 17.4% for trays and 58.8% for foils. The differences between the tested packaging materials are related to their thickness, mechanical strength and to the alloy. PMID:22749723
Scratch Cell Test: A Simple, Cost Effective Screening Tool to Evaluate Self-Healing in Anti-Corrosion Coatings
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Rani, Amitha; Somaiah, Durga; Megha; Poddar, Mitalee
A quick and simple scratch cell set up to evaluate the self-healing of an hybrid sol-gel (ormosil) coating was fabricated. This methacrylate-based anti-corrosion coating was applied on the aerospace aluminium alloy AA2024-T3, and cured at room temperature. This technique of evaluation requires minimum instrumentation. The inhibitors cerium nitrate, benzotriazole and 8-hydroxy quinoline (8-HQ) were used in the study. The self-healing ability of the inhibitors decreased in the following order: 8-HQ, BTZ and Ce. 8-HQ showed the highest self-healing ability and was comparable to the commercial hexavalent chromium conversion coating—Alodine. Spectroscopic analysis of the electrolyte and EDX of the coatings indicated the movement of the inhibitor from the coating to the site of damage, thereby effecting self-healing. It was observed that an increased inhibitor concentration in the coatings did not accelerate the healing process. Inhibitor release was slower in the coatings doped with inhibitor-loaded nano-containers, when compared to inhibitor-spiked coatings. This property of controlled release is desirable in self-healing coatings. Electro impedance studies further confirmed self-healing efficiency of the coatings. The scratch cell study reported here is the first of its kind with the ormosil under study on AA2024-T3 aluminium alloy. The results are encouraging and warranty a quick and simple qualitative screening of the self-healing potential of the inhibitors with minimum instrumentation.
Time-resolved aluminium laser-induced plasma temperature measurements
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Surmick, D. M.; Parigger, C. G.
We seek to characterize the temperature decay of laser-induced plasma near the surface of an aluminium target from laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy measurements of aluminium alloy sample. Laser-induced plasma are initiated by tightly focussing 1064 nm, nanosecond pulsed Nd:YAG laser radiation. Temperatures are inferred from aluminium monoxide spectra viewed at systematically varied time delays by comparing experimental spectra to theoretical calculations with a Nelder Mead algorithm. The temperatures are found to decay from 5173 ± 270 to 3862 ± 46 Kelvin from 10 to 100 μs time delays following optical breakdown. The temperature profile along the plasma height is also inferred from spatially resolved spectral measurements and the electron number density is inferred from Stark broadened Hβ spectra.
Aluminium and human breast diseases.
Darbre, P D; Pugazhendhi, D; Mannello, F
The human breast is exposed to aluminium from many sources including diet and personal care products, but dermal application of aluminium-based antiperspirant salts provides a local long-term source of exposure. Recent measurements have shown that aluminium is present in both tissue and fat of the human breast but at levels which vary both between breasts and between tissue samples from the same breast. We have recently found increased levels of aluminium in noninvasively collected nipple aspirate fluids taken from breast cancer patients (mean 268 ± 28 μg/l) compared with control healthy subjects (mean 131 ± 10 μg/l) providing evidence of raised aluminium levels in the breast microenvironment when cancer is present. The measurement of higher levels of aluminium in type I human breast cyst fluids (median 150 μg/l) compared with human serum (median 6 μg/l) or human milk (median 25 μg/l) warrants further investigation into any possible role of aluminium in development of this benign breast disease. Emerging evidence for aluminium in several breast structures now requires biomarkers of aluminium action in order to ascertain whether the presence of aluminium has any biological impact. To this end, we report raised levels of proteins that modulate iron homeostasis (ferritin, transferrin) in parallel with raised aluminium in nipple aspirate fluids in vivo, and we report overexpression of mRNA for several S100 calcium binding proteins following long-term exposure of MCF-7 human breast cancer cells in vitro to aluminium chlorhydrate. PMID:22099158
Aluminium alloys for offshore drilling systems
Fine, G.M.; Basovich, V.S.; Pisarnitsky, A.D.; Jemetz, B.V.; Mazurova, L.D.; Gelfgat, M.Ya.
This paper presents the experience gained in the USSR (now CIS) over many years in the use of Aluminum Drill Pipe (ADP). The main advantages of aluminum over steel for drill pipe applications are discussed. Methods of fabricating aluminum pipes with steel tool joints are explained. The problems of abrasion and corrosion resistance are presented. Recent experience testing ADP after exposure to the offshore environment have shown negligible reduction in fatigue life. It is now considered possible to design a slimline riser in aluminum for water depths of 3--4 kilometers.
Occupational lung fibrosis in an aluminium polisher.
De Vuyst, P; Dumortier, P; Rickaert, F; Van de Weyer, R; Lenclud, C; Yernault, J C
An aluminium polisher developed severe lung fibrosis complicated by bronchial carcinoma. Although he was not submitted to the exposure risks usually described in aluminium lung (bauxite smelting, use of aluminium powders, aluminium welding), he worked in a high concentration of aluminium dust. This was demonstrated by mineralogical analyses which revealed large amounts of small metallic aluminium particles (0.5 micron - 5 micron) in bronchoalveolar lavage, lung tissue and lymph nodes 5 years after the end of exposure. Aluminium polishing seems to be a potential cause of aluminium lung. PMID:3699115
Influence of embedded nanocontainers on the efficiency of active anticorrosive coatings for aluminum alloys part II: influence of nanocontainer position.
Borisova, Dimitriya; Möhwald, Helmuth; Shchukin, Dmitry G
The present work contributes to the coating design of active anticorrosive coatings for the aluminum alloy, AA2024-T3. Part II is a continuation of Part I: Influence of Nanocontainer Concentration and describes further surprising aspects of the design of nanocontainer based active anticorrosive coatings, which influence their performance. The studied coating system consists of a passive sol-gel (SiO(x)/ZrO(x)) matrix and inhibitor (2-mercaptobenzothiazole) loaded mesoporous silica nanocontainers (MBT@NCs), which are dispersed only in half of the coating volume. Varying position and concentration of MBT@NCs the synergetic effect of inhibitor amount and path length on the metal surface were analyzed, considering the balance between optimum barrier properties, active protection and adhesion. The impact of MBT@NC position on passive and active corrosion resistance was investigated by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and scanning vibrating electrode technique. Increasing the distance between MBT@NCs and metal surface led to better barrier properties but worse active corrosion inhibition. These findings improve the understanding of the factors influencing the overall performance of active anticorrosive coatings and enable the development of a coating system with optimum anticorrosion efficiency. PMID:23237235
Microstructure and Residual Stress Distributions Under the Influence of Welding Speed in Friction Stir Welded 2024 Aluminum Alloy
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Moghadam, Danial Ghahremani; Farhangdoost, Khalil; Nejad, Reza Masoudi
Friction stir welding was conducted on 8-mm-thick plates made of AA2024-T351 aluminum alloy at tool traverse speeds between 8 and 31.5 mm/minutes and tool rotational speed between 400 and 800 rpm. Metallographic analyses and mechanical tests including hardness, tensile, residual stress, and fracture toughness tests were carried out to evaluate the microstructural and mechanical properties of the joints as a function of the process parameters. The finite element simulation of the FSW process was also performed using a thermal model. The hardness test results show that the increase in rotational speed or decrease in traverse speed of the tool would cause a decrease in weld zone hardness. The best tensile properties are obtained at rotational/traverse speed ratio between 20 and 32. Also, the longitudinal residual stress profiles were evaluated by employing X-ray diffraction method. The numerical and experimental results showed that the increase in a traverse or rotational speed would increase the residual stress of the weld zone. From the fracture toughness results, it was found that the welding process decreases the joints fracture toughness 18 to 49 pct with respect to the base metal.
Microstructure and Residual Stress Distributions Under the Influence of Welding Speed in Friction Stir Welded 2024 Aluminum Alloy
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Moghadam, Danial Ghahremani; Farhangdoost, Khalil; Nejad, Reza Masoudi
Friction stir welding was conducted on 8-mm-thick plates made of AA2024-T351 aluminum alloy at tool traverse speeds between 8 and 31.5 mm/minutes and tool rotational speed between 400 and 800 rpm. Metallographic analyses and mechanical tests including hardness, tensile, residual stress, and fracture toughness tests were carried out to evaluate the microstructural and mechanical properties of the joints as a function of the process parameters. The finite element simulation of the FSW process was also performed using a thermal model. The hardness test results show that the increase in rotational speed or decrease in traverse speed of the tool would cause a decrease in weld zone hardness. The best tensile properties are obtained at rotational/traverse speed ratio between 20 and 32. Also, the longitudinal residual stress profiles were evaluated by employing X-ray diffraction method. The numerical and experimental results showed that the increase in a traverse or rotational speed would increase the residual stress of the weld zone. From the fracture toughness results, it was found that the welding process decreases the joints fracture toughness 18 to 49 pct with respect to the base metal.
Aluminium, antiperspirants and breast cancer.
Darbre, P D
Aluminium salts are used as the active antiperspirant agent in underarm cosmetics, but the effects of widespread, long term and increasing use remain unknown, especially in relation to the breast, which is a local area of application. Clinical studies showing a disproportionately high incidence of breast cancer in the upper outer quadrant of the breast together with reports of genomic instability in outer quadrants of the breast provide supporting evidence for a role for locally applied cosmetic chemicals in the development of breast cancer. Aluminium is known to have a genotoxic profile, capable of causing both DNA alterations and epigenetic effects, and this would be consistent with a potential role in breast cancer if such effects occurred in breast cells. Oestrogen is a well established influence in breast cancer and its action, dependent on intracellular receptors which function as ligand-activated zinc finger transcription factors, suggests one possible point of interference from aluminium. Results reported here demonstrate that aluminium in the form of aluminium chloride or aluminium chlorhydrate can interfere with the function of oestrogen receptors of MCF7 human breast cancer cells both in terms of ligand binding and in terms of oestrogen-regulated reporter gene expression. This adds aluminium to the increasing list of metals capable of interfering with oestrogen action and termed metalloestrogens. Further studies are now needed to identify the molecular basis of this action, the longer term effects of aluminium exposure and whether aluminium can cause aberrations to other signalling pathways in breast cells. Given the wide exposure of the human population to antiperspirants, it will be important to establish dermal absorption in the local area of the breast and whether long term low level absorption could play a role in the increasing incidence of breast cancer. PMID:16045991
The toxicity of aluminium in humans.
Exley, C
We are living in the 'aluminium age'. Human exposure to aluminium is inevitable and, perhaps, inestimable. Aluminium's free metal cation, Alaq(3+), is highly biologically reactive and biologically available aluminium is non-essential and essentially toxic. Biologically reactive aluminium is present throughout the human body and while, rarely, it can be acutely toxic, much less is understood about chronic aluminium intoxication. Herein the question is asked as to how to diagnose aluminium toxicity in an individual. While there are as yet, no unequivocal answers to this problem, there are procedures to follow to ascertain the nature of human exposure to aluminium. It is also important to recognise critical factors in exposure regimes and specifically that not all forms of aluminium are toxicologically equivalent and not all routes of exposure are equivalent in their delivery of aluminium to target sites. To ascertain if Alzheimer's disease is a symptom of chronic aluminium intoxication over decades or breast cancer is aggravated by the topical application of an aluminium salt or if autism could result from an immune cascade initiated by an aluminium adjuvant requires that each of these is considered independently and in the light of the most up to date scientific evidence. The aluminium age has taught us that there are no inevitabilities where chronic aluminium toxicity is concerned though there are clear possibilities and these require proving or discounting but not simply ignored. PMID:26922890
A 3D printed superconducting aluminium microwave cavity
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Creedon, Daniel L.; Goryachev, Maxim; Kostylev, Nikita; Sercombe, Timothy B.; Tobar, Michael E.
3D printing of plastics, ceramics, and metals has existed for several decades and has revolutionized many areas of manufacturing and science. Printing of metals, in particular, has found a number of applications in fields as diverse as customized medical implants, jet engine bearings, and rapid prototyping in the automotive industry. Although many techniques are used for 3D printing metals, they commonly rely on computer controlled melting or sintering of a metal alloy powder using a laser or electron beam. The mechanical properties of parts produced in such a way have been well studied, but little attention has been paid to their electrical properties. Here we show that a microwave cavity (resonant frequencies 9.9 and 11.2 GHz) 3D printed using an Al-12Si alloy exhibits superconductivity when cooled below the critical temperature of aluminium (1.2 K), with a performance comparable with the common 6061 alloy of aluminium. Superconducting cavities find application in numerous areas of physics, from particle accelerators to cavity quantum electrodynamics experiments. The result is achieved even with a very large concentration of non-superconducting silicon in the alloy of 12.18%, compared with Al-6061, which has between 0.4% and 0.8%. Our results may pave the way for the possibility of 3D printing superconducting cavity configurations that are otherwise impossible to machine.
Investigations of conductive polymer coatings for corrosion protection of aluminum alloys
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Racicot, Robert James
The anti-corrosion properties of a novel double strand conductive polymer coating on aluminum alloys in salt environments as a possible replacement for chromium conversion coatings was investigated. The conductive coating consisted of a double helix backbone structure of polyaniline wrapped with an esterified polyacrylic acid strand. This polymer complex offers advantages over other conductive polymer systems in material stability and processability. The polymer is soluble in single organic solvents and was sprayed onto square AA7075-T6 and AA2024-T3 aluminum alloy samples. The coatings were investigated for corrosion protection properties using cyclic polarization, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and long term exposure in aggressive salt environments. The polymer coated samples were tested against two commercial chromate conversion coatings and uncoated alloy samples. The cyclic polarization tests show a two order of magnitude lowering of the corrosion current over the uncoated samples, a one order of magnitude lowering of Isbcorr over the second type of chromate coating and a one order of magnitude higher Isbcorr over the first type of chromate coating. Impedance results show a two order of magnitude higher impedance at low frequencies over the uncoated and equivalent performance for both types of chromate coatings. EIS and cyclic polarization tests of the conductive state (green colored) versus a non-conductive state (blue colored) of the polymer coating shows that the electrically conductive state is more effective than the insulating state for corrosion protection. This data indicates that the electro-active nature of the polymer coating plays a role in the protection of the alloys. After two months exposure in a.5N NaCl solution, there is no evidence of pitting at the alloy surface for the polymer coated samples under scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images, indicating a change in the typical corrosion mechanism for aluminum alloys. The
Aluminium surface treatment with ceramic phases using diode laser
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Labisz, K.; Tański, T.; Brytan, Z.; Pakieła, W.; Wiśniowski, M.
Ceramic particles powder feeding into surface layer of engineering metal alloy is a well-known and widely used technique. New approach into the topic is to obtain finely distributed nano-sized particles involved in the aluminium matrix using the traditional laser technology. In this paper are presented results of microstructure investigation of cast aluminium-silicon-copper alloys surface layer after heat treatment and alloying with ceramic carbides of WC and ZrO2 using high-power diode laser. The surface layer was specially prepared for the reason of reducing the reflectivity, which is the main problem in the up-to-date metal matrix composites production. With scanning electron microscopy, it was possible to determine the deformation process and distribution of WC and ZrO2 ceramic powder phase. Structure of the surface after laser treatment changes, revealing three zones—remelting zone, heat-affected zone and transition zone placed over the Al substrate. The structural changes of ceramic powder, its distribution and morphology as well as microstructure of the matrix material influence on functional properties, especially wear resistance and hardness of the achieved layer, were investigated.
Determination of trace and minor elements in alloys by atomic-absorption spectroscopy using an induction-heated graphite-well furnace as atom source-II.
Ashy, M A; Headridge, J B; Sowerbutts, A
Results are presented for the atomic-absorption spectrophotometric determination of zinc in aluminium and aluminium-silicon alloys, and aluminium, antimony and tin in steels, by means of solid samples dropped into an induction-heated graphite-well furnace to produce the atomic vapour. PMID:18961510
Aluminium phosphide-induced leukopenia.
Ntelios, Dimitrios; Mandros, Charalampos; Potolidis, Evangelos; Fanourgiakis, Panagiotis
Acute intoxication from the pesticide aluminium phosphide is a relatively rare, life-threatening condition in which cardiovascular decompensation is the most feared problem. We report the case of a patient exposed to aluminium phosphide-liberated phosphine gas. It resulted in the development of a gastroenteritis-like syndrome accompanied by severe reduction in white blood cell numbers as an early and prominent manifestation. By affecting important physiological processes such as mitochondrial function and reactive oxygen species homeostasis, phosphine could cause severe toxicity. After presenting the characteristics of certain leucocyte subpopulations we provide the current molecular understanding of the observed leukopenia which in part seems paradoxical. PMID:24172776
Aluminium phosphide-induced leukopenia
Ntelios, Dimitrios; Mandros, Charalampos; Potolidis, Evangelos; Fanourgiakis, Panagiotis
Acute intoxication from the pesticide aluminium phosphide is a relatively rare, life-threatening condition in which cardiovascular decompensation is the most feared problem. We report the case of a patient exposed to aluminium phosphide-liberated phosphine gas. It resulted in the development of a gastroenteritis-like syndrome accompanied by severe reduction in white blood cell numbers as an early and prominent manifestation. By affecting important physiological processes such as mitochondrial function and reactive oxygen species homeostasis, phosphine could cause severe toxicity. After presenting the characteristics of certain leucocyte subpopulations we provide the current molecular understanding of the observed leukopenia which in part seems paradoxical. PMID:24172776
The prophylactic reduction of aluminium intake.
Lione, A
The use of modern analytical methods has demonstrated that aluminium salts can be absorbed from the gut and concentrated in various human tissues, including bone, the parathyroids and brain. The neurotoxicity of aluminium has been extensively characterized in rabbits and cats, and high concentrations of aluminium have been detected in the brain tissue of patients with Alzheimer's disease. Various reports have suggested that high aluminium intakes may be harmful to some patients with bone disease or renal impairment. Fatal aluminium-induced neuropathies have been reported in patients on renal dialysis. Since there are no demonstrable consequences of aluminium deprivation, the prophylactic reduction of aluminium intake by many patients would appear prudent. In this report, the major sources of aluminium in foods and non-prescription drugs are summarized and alternative products are described. The most common foods that contain substantial amounts of aluminium-containing additives include some processed cheeses, baking powders, cake mixes, frozen doughs, pancake mixes, self-raising flours and pickled vegetables. The aluminium-containing non-prescription drugs include some antacids, buffered aspirins, antidiarrhoeal products, douches and haemorrhoidal medications. The advisability of recommending a low aluminium diet for geriatric patients is discussed in detail. PMID:6337934
Itinerant antiferromagnetism of TiAl alloys
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Petrişor, T.; Pop, I.; Giurgiu, A.; Farbaş, N.
Magnetic susceptibility measurements of TiAl alloys are reported. Aluminium, by alloying, acts on the Néel temperature of pure titanium giving rise to a complicated phase diagram. A theoretical model, based on the itinerant antiferromagnetism model of chromium is proposed in order to explain the magnetic phase diagram of TiAl alloys. The experimental and theoretical magnetic phase diagram are in good agreement.
Analysis of cutting forces during dry turning processes of UNS A92024-T3 aluminium bars
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
de Agustina, B.; Rubio, E. M.
In the aeronautical and aerospace industries there is a great demand of materials with high resistance and low weight such as the aluminium alloys for the production of different elements that conforms the airships and aerospace vehicles. In this work, an experimental study was carried out in order to analyse the influence of the cutting parameters (feed rate, cutting speed and type of tool) on the forces generated during dry turning tests of UNS A92024-T3 aluminium bars. The main influents factors on the forces were the feed rate and the interaction between type of tool and the spindle speed.
Aluminium toxicity in chronic renal insufficiency
Savory, J.; Bertholf, R.L.; Wills, M.R.
Aluminium is a ubiquitous element in the environment and has been demonstrated to be toxic, especially in individuals with impaired renal function. Not much is known about the biochemistry of aluminium and the mechanisms of its toxic effects. Most of the interest in aluminium has been in the clinical setting of the hemodialysis unit. Here aluminium toxicity occurs due to contamination of dialysis solutions, and treatment of the patients with aluminium-containing phosphate binding gels. Aluminium has been shown to be the major contributor to the dialysis encephalopathy syndrome and an osteomalacic component of dialysis osteodystrophy. Other clinical disturbances associated with aluminium toxicity are a microcytic anemia and metastatic extraskeletal calcification. Aluminium overload can be treated effectively by chelation therapy with desferrioxamine and hemodialysis. Aluminium is readily transferred from the dialysate to the patient's -bloodstream during hemodialysis. Once transferred, the aluminium is tightly bound to non-dialysable plasma constituents. Very low concentrations of dialysate aluminium in the range of 10-15 micrograms/l are recommended to guard against toxic effects. Very few studies have been directed towards the separation of the various plasma species which bind eluminium. Gel filtration chromatography has been used to identify five major fractions, one of which is of low molecular weight and the others appear to be protein-aluminium complexes. Recommendations on aluminium monitoring have been published and provide safe and toxic concentrations. Also, the frequency of monitoring has been addressed. Major problems exist with the analytical methods for measuring aluminium which result from inaccurate techniques and contamination difficulties. 136 references.
Corrosion inhibition by inorganic cationic inhibitors on the high strength alumunium alloy, 2024-T3
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Chilukuri, Anusha
The toxicity and carcinogenic nature of chromates has led to the investigation of environmentally friendly compounds that offer good corrosion resistance to AA 2024-T3. Among the candidate inhibitors are rare earth metal cationic (REM) and zinc compounds, which have received much of attention over the past two decades. A comparative study on the corrosion inhibition caused by rare earth metal cations, Ce3+, Pr3+, La3+ and Zn2+ cations on the alloy was done. Cathodic polarization showed that these inhibitor ions suppress the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) to varying extents with Zn2+ providing the best inhibition. Pr3+ exhibited windows of concentration (100-300 ppm) in which the corrosion rate is minimum; similar to the Ce3+ cation. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) studies showed that the mechanism of inhibition of the Pr3+ ion is also similar to that of the Ce3+ ion. Potentiodynamic polarization experiments after 30 min immersion time showed greatest suppression of oxygen reduction reaction in neutral chloride solutions (pH 7), which reached a maximum at a Zn2+ ion concentration of 5 mM. Anodic polarization experiments after 30 min immersion time, showed no anodic inhibition by the inhibitor in any concentration (0.1 mM - 10 mM) and at any pH. However, anodic polarization of samples immersed after longer immersion times (upto 4 days) in mildly acidic Zn2+ (pH 4) solutions showed significant reduction in anodic kinetics indicating that zinc also acts as a "slow anodic inhibitor". In contrast to the polarization experiments, coupons exposed to inhibited acidic solutions at pH 4 showed complete suppression of dissolution of Al2CuMg particles compared to zinc-free solutions in the SEM studies. Samples exposed in pH 4 Zn2+-bearing solution exhibited highest polarization resistance which was also observed to increase with time. In deaerated solutions, the inhibition by Zn2+ at pH 4 is not observed as strongly. The ability to make the interfacial electrolyte
Bumblebee Pupae Contain High Levels of Aluminium
Exley, Christopher; Rotheray, Ellen; Goulson, David
The causes of declines in bees and other pollinators remains an on-going debate. While recent attention has focussed upon pesticides, other environmental pollutants have largely been ignored. Aluminium is the most significant environmental contaminant of recent times and we speculated that it could be a factor in pollinator decline. Herein we have measured the content of aluminium in bumblebee pupae taken from naturally foraging colonies in the UK. Individual pupae were acid-digested in a microwave oven and their aluminium content determined using transversely heated graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry. Pupae were heavily contaminated with aluminium giving values between 13.4 and 193.4 μg/g dry wt. and a mean (SD) value of 51.0 (33.0) μg/g dry wt. for the 72 pupae tested. Mean aluminium content was shown to be a significant negative predictor of average pupal weight in colonies. While no other statistically significant relationships were found relating aluminium to bee or colony health, the actual content of aluminium in pupae are extremely high and demonstrate significant exposure to aluminium. Bees rely heavily on cognitive function and aluminium is a known neurotoxin with links, for example, to Alzheimer's disease in humans. The significant contamination of bumblebee pupae by aluminium raises the intriguing spectre of cognitive dysfunction playing a role in their population decline. PMID:26042788
Corrosion inhibition mechanisms of aluminum alloy 2024-T3 by selected non-chromate inhibitors
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Lopez-Garrity, Omar A.
The pursuit to find a chromate-alternative has led to the development of several chromate-free aerospace primers and coating systems that offer good protection. However, fundamental understanding of the functionality of the chromate-free pigments that are embedded within these coating systems is lacking. The objective of this study was to understand the fundamental mechanism of corrosion inhibition of aluminum alloy 2024-T3 by molybdate (MoO 42-), silicate (SiO32-), and praseodymium (Pr3+) with the goal of developing the kind of understanding that was accomplished for chromate. Furthermore, since most inhibiting conversion coatings and pigments act by releasing soluble species into the local environment, it was of interest to understand the mechanism of inhibition in aqueous 0.1 M NaCl solution. The mechanism of inhibition of AA2024-T3 by the select non-chromate inhibitors was investigated using various electrochemical, microscopic and spectroscopic techniques. Naturally aerated polarization curves showed that molybdate provided mixed inhibition in near-neutral pH and at a threshold concentration of 0.1 M. The largest effect was a 250 mV increase in the breakdown potential associated with pitting and a 350 mV decrease in the open-circuit potential (OCP). In addition, electrochemical impedance indicated that the corrosion inhibition mechanism is oxygen-dependent owing to the protection afforded by Mo(VI) species. It was proposed that the corrosion inhibition of AA2024-T3 by molybdate may occur following a two-step process whereby molybdate is rapidly reduced to MoO.(OH)2 over the intermetallic particles and is subsequently oxidized to intermediate molybdenum oxides (e.g. Mo4O11) in the presence of oxygen which is reduced. This in turn may lead to a local acidification, promoting the condensation and polymerization of molybdate species in solution to form polymolybdate species (Mo7O24 6- and Mo8O264-). Furthermore, S-phase particle dissolution is decreased
A model of the interfacial processes inhibiting the environmental degradation of Al-Cu alloys
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Kearns, Jeffery Robert
A better understanding of the composition and structure of chemically treated Al alloy surfaces is necessary to devise new, more environmentally benign, coating systems for aircraft. In this work, the surface of AA2024-T3, as well as analogs for constituent intermetallic compounds (IMC), were examined at various stages of the Al alloy pretreatment and chromate conversion coating (CCC) process. A complement of techniques were used: imaging and dyanmic Secondary Ion Mass Spectroscopy (SIMS), Variable-Angle X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (VA/XPS), Synchrotron Infrared Microspectroscopy (SIRS), X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy (XAS), and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS). The water and hydrocarbons in commercial CCC destabilized Cr(VI) during exposure to soft x-rays. However, it was possible to prevent photochemical reduction with the ultra-clean vacuum pumping practice recently developed at Stony Brook. The type of pretreatment used prior to chromate conversion coating influenced the extent of IMC removal, Cu (re)distribution, and surface activity. Cu(I) was observed on all the chemically treated surfaces. Samples pretreated in Sanchem 1000 while galvanically coupled to a Pt mesh had a more desirable distribution of Cu for subsequent processing. Chromate reduction was not a significant factor in CCC aging over a 24-hr period, but surface dehydration and structural change were correlated and causative. Imaging SIMS revealed heterogeneities in the CCC that varied laterally with IMC in the alloy substrate. These regions were depleted in compounds containing Cr, F, and CN. Cu was found at localized sites in the CCC contact surface. Cyano groups were bound as Cr(IlI)-CNFe(H). The chromate available for CCC repair was located on matrix regions through the entire bulk of the CCC. The presence of residual contaminants (e.g. cleaning agents, metal working fluid, ink) affected the distribution of activator compounds (e.g. ferricyanide) in a CCC. The cyanide complex
Aluminium in foodstuffs and diets in Sweden.
Jorhem, L; Haegglund, G
The levels of aluminium have been determined in a number of individual foodstuffs on the Swedish market and in 24 h duplicate diets collected by women living in the Stockholm area. The results show that the levels in most foods are very low and that the level in vegetables can vary by a factor 10. Beverages from aluminium cans were found to have aluminium levels not markedly different from those in glass bottles. Based on the results of the analysis of individual foods, the average Swedish daily diet was calculated to contain about 0.6 mg aluminium, whereas the mean content of the collected duplicate diets was 13 mg. A cake made from a mix containing aluminium phosphate in the baking soda was identified as the most important contributor of aluminium to the duplicate diets. Tea and aluminium utensils were estimated to increase the aluminium content of the diets by approximately 4 and 2 mg/day, respectively. The results also indicate that a considerable amount of aluminium must be introduced from other sources. PMID:1542992
Raman spectroscopy of fluoropolymer conformal coatings on electronic boards
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Rodošek, Mirjana; Perše, Lidija Slemenik; Mihelčič, Mohor; Koželj, Matjaž; Orel, Boris; Bengű, Başak; Sunetci, Onder; Pori, Pauli; Vuk, Angela Šurca
Fluoropolymer conformal coatings were applied to electronic boards (EBs) and cured at room temperature or 80°C. The coatings were first deposited on model substrate, i.e. aluminium alloy AA 2024 and tested for their anticorrosion properties with a potentiodynamic polarisation technique. The cathodic current densities ranged from 10-9-10-10 A/cm2, approaching the lower current limit after the addition of TiO2 nanoparticles into the formulation. Application of fluoropolymer-based formulation was performed via spray-coating deposition. Examination of the coverage of EBs under UV light, which is commonly used in industry, revealed that some components might not be entirely covered. In the search for other possible analytical tools of coverage with protective coatings, optical microscopy and confocal Raman spectroscopy were investigated.
Tensile and fatigue behaviour of self-piercing rivets of CFRP to aluminium for automotive application
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Kang, J.; Rao, H.; Zhang, R.; Avery, K.; Su, X.
In this study, the tensile and fatigue behaviour of self-piercing rivets (SPRs) in carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) to aluminium 6111 T82 alloys were evaluated. An average maximum lap-shear tensile load capacity of 3858 N was achieved, which is comparable to metal-to-metal SPR lap-shear joints. The CFRP-Al SPRs failed in lap-shear tension due to pull-out of the rivet head from the CFRP upper sheet. The CFRP-Al SPR lap- shear specimens exhibited superior fatigue life compared to previously studied aluminium-to- aluminium SPR lap-shear joints. The SPR lap-shear joints under fatigue loads failed predominantly due to kinked crack growth along the width of the bottom aluminium sheet. The fatigue cracks initiated in the plastically deformed region of the aluminium sheet close to the rivet shank in the rivet-sheet interlock region. Scatter in fatigue life and failure modes was observed in SPR lap-shear specimens tested close to maximum tensile load.
Nano-crystalline P/M aluminium for automotive applications
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Hummert, K.; Schattevoy, R.; Broda, M.; Knappe, M.; Beiss, P.; Klubberg, F.; Schubert, T. H.; Leuschner, R.
The reduction of total vehicle weight and lowering of moving masses within the engine are key elements to overcome future emission challenges of the automotive industry. Within a German BMBF funded project the melt spinning technology will be driven to a series production status. The very fast cooling condition of the melt leads to a nano-structure of the aluminium material. This results in new material properties of known alloys. The strength increases dramatically without lowered forming behaviour. With this process the freedom of designing complex alloys is very flexible. Different alloys have been investigated for several applications, where high strength at room and elevated temperatures and/or high wear resistance is required. This paper presents some results regarding the processing, microstructure and mechanical properties of a developed Al-Ni-Fe alloy. This joined research project with partners from the automotive industry as well as automotive suppliers and universities is funded by the German BMBF "NanoMobile" Program under Project number 03X3008.
Development of aluminium-clad steel sheet by roll-bonding for the automotive industry
Buchner, M.; Buchmayr, B.; Bichler, Ch.; Riemelmoser, F.
The objective of the present work is a basic study of production, modelling and validation of sheet composites of AA6xxx-automotive alloy and IF-steel. In this context the influence of surface preparation, pre-heating temperature of aluminium and steel plate, and thickness reduction on the bond strength of the composites as well as on the formation of intermetallic interface layers is analysed by shear tests and metallographic evaluations of the interface.
Lactobacillus plantarum CCFM639 alleviates aluminium toxicity.
Yu, Leilei; Zhai, Qixiao; Liu, Xiaoming; Wang, Gang; Zhang, Qiuxiang; Zhao, Jianxin; Narbad, Arjan; Zhang, Hao; Tian, Fengwei; Chen, Wei
Aluminium (Al) is the most abundant metal in the earth's crust. Al exposure can cause a variety of adverse physiological effects in humans and animals. Our aim was to demonstrate that specific probiotic bacteria can play a special physiologically functional role in protection against Al toxicity in mice. Thirty strains of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) were tested for their aluminium-binding ability, aluminium tolerance, their antioxidative capacity, and their ability to survive the exposure to artificial gastrointestinal (GI) juices. Lactobacillus plantarum CCFM639 was selected for animal experiments because of its excellent performance in vitro. Forty mice were divided into four groups: control, Al only, Al plus CCFM639, and Al plus deferiprone (DFP). CCFM639 was administered at 10(9) CFU once daily for 10 days, followed by a single oral dose of aluminium chloride hexahydrate at 5.14 mg aluminium (LD50) for each mouse. The results showed that CCFM639 treatment led to a significant reduction in the mortality rates with corresponding decrease in intestinal aluminium absorption and in accumulation of aluminium in the tissues and amelioration of hepatic histopathological damage. This probiotic treatment also resulted in alleviation of hepatic, renal, and cerebral oxidative stress. The treatment of L. plantarum CCFM639 has potential as a therapeutic dietary strategy against acute aluminium toxicity. PMID:26610803
Aluminium Diphosphamethanides: Hidden Frustrated Lewis Pairs.
Styra, Steffen; Radius, Michael; Moos, Eric; Bihlmeier, Angela; Breher, Frank
The synthesis and characterisation of two aluminium diphosphamethanide complexes, [Al(tBu)2 {κ(2) P,P'-Mes*PCHPMes*}] (3) and [Al(C6 F5 )2 {κ(2) P,P'-Mes*PCHPMes*}] (4), and the silylated analogue, Mes*PCHP(SiMe3 )Mes* (5), are reported. The aluminium complexes feature four-membered PCPAl core structures consisting of diphosphaallyl ligands. The silylated phosphine 5 was found to be a valuable precursor for the synthesis of 4 as it cleanly reacts with the diaryl aluminium chloride [(C6 F5 )2 AlCl]2 . The aluminium complex 3 reacts with molecular dihydrogen at room temperature under formation of the acyclic σ(2) λ(3) ,σ(3) λ(3) -diphosphine Mes*PCHP(H)Mes* and the corresponding dialkyl aluminium hydride [tBu2 AlH]3 . Thus, 3 belongs to the family of so-called hidden frustrated Lewis pairs. PMID:27271936
Treatment of highly concentrated tannery wastewater using electrocoagulation: Influence of the quality of aluminium used for the electrode.
Elabbas, S; Ouazzani, N; Mandi, L; Berrekhis, F; Perdicakis, M; Pontvianne, S; Pons, M-N; Lapicque, F; Leclerc, J-P
This paper deals with the ability of electrocoagulation (EC) to remove simultaneously COD and chromium from a real chrome tanning wastewater in a batch stirred electro-coagulation cell provided with two aluminium-based electrodes (aluminium/copper/magnesium alloy and pure aluminium). Effects of operating time, current density and initial concentration of Cr(III) and COD have been investigated. The concentrations of pollutants have been successfully reduced to environmentally acceptable levels even if the concentrated effluent requires a long time of treatment of around 6h with a 400A/m(2) current density. The aluminium alloy was found to be more efficient than pure aluminium for removal of COD and chromium. Dilution of the waste has been tested for treatment: high abatement levels could be obtained with shorter time of treatment and lower current densities. Energy consumption of the electrocoagulation process was also discussed. The dilution by half of the concentrated waste leads to a higher abatement performance of both COD and chromium with the best energy efficiency. PMID:26777109
Biological indicators of exposure to total and respirable aluminium dust fractions in a primary aluminium smelter.
Röllin, H B; Theodorou, P; Cantrell, A C
OBJECTIVES: The study attempts to define biological indicators of aluminium uptake and excretion in workers exposed to airborne aluminium compounds in a primary aluminium smelter. Also, this study defines the total and respirable aluminium dust fractions in two different potrooms, and correlates their concentrations with biological indicators in this group of workers. METHODS: Air was sampled at defined work sites. Non-destructive and conventional techniques were used to find total and respirable aluminium content of the dust. Blood and urine was collected from 84 volunteers employed at various work stations throughout the smelter and from two different cohorts of controls matched for sex, age, and socioeconomic status. Aluminium in serum samples and urine specimens was measured by flameless atomic absorption with a PE 4100 ZL spectrometer. RESULTS: The correlation of aluminium concentrations in serum and urine samples with the degree of exposure was assessed for three arbitrary exposure categories; low (0.036 mg Al/m3), medium (0.35 mg Al/m3) and high (1.47 mg Al/m3) as found in different areas of the smelter. At medium and high exposure, the ratio of respirable to total aluminium in the dust samples varied significantly. At high exposure, serum aluminium, although significantly raised, was still within the normal range of an unexposed population. The workers with low exposure excreted aluminium in urine at levels significantly higher than the controls, but still within the normal range of the population. However, potroom workers with medium and high exposure had significantly higher urinary aluminium than the normal range. CONCLUSIONS: It is concluded that only urinary aluminium constitutes a practical index of occupational exposure at or above 0.35 mg Al/m3, and that the respirable fraction of the dust may play a major role in the biological response to exposure to aluminium in a smelter environment. PMID:8758038
Studies of Splat Formation of Copper and Copper Aluminium on Ceramic Substrate in Plasma Spray Process
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Tran, A. T. T.; Hyland, M. M.; Fukumoto, M.; Munroe, P.
Of the substrate-related factors that will influence splat formation, alloying elements has been little studied. In the present work, we have examined the role of alloying elements in controlling the extent of splashing of plasma-sprayed splats. Splats of copper (Cu) and copper alloyed with Al and Zr were deposited by plasma spray or as free-falling droplets. The splat formation and splat-substrate interfaces were characterized using SEM and FIB. It was found that the presence of aluminium in plasma-sprayed Cu-10%Al increased the portion of favorable disk-shaped splats compared to pure copper. It was also found that the disk-shaped splat proportion of Cu-10%Al at room temperature is nearly identical to that of Cu splat at 300 °C, indicating that the addition of Al in the alloy leads to the improvement of splat formation, correlating with the improvement in the interface bonding with the substrate.
Alveolar proteinosis associated with aluminium dust inhalation.
Chew, R; Nigam, S; Sivakumaran, P
Secondary alveolar proteinosis is a rare lung disease which may be triggered by a variety of inhaled particles. The diagnosis is made by detection of anti-granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor antibodies in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, which appears milky white and contains lamellar bodies. Aluminium has been suggested as a possible cause, but there is little evidence in the literature to support this assertion. We report the case of a 46-year-old former boilermaker and boat builder who developed secondary alveolar proteinosis following sustained heavy aluminium exposure. The presence of aluminium was confirmed both by histological examination and metallurgical analysis of a mediastinal lymph node. Despite cessation of exposure to aluminium and treatment with whole-lung lavage which normally results in improvements in both symptoms and lung function, the outcome was poor and novel therapies are now being used for this patient. It may be that the natural history in aluminium-related alveolar proteinosis is different, with the metal playing a mediating role in the disease process. Our case further supports the link between aluminium and secondary alveolar proteinosis and highlights the need for measures to prevent excessive aluminium inhalation in relevant industries. PMID:27099254
Laser ablation of copper and aluminium in air
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Xia, Yueyuan; Mei, Liangmo; Tan, Chunyu; Liu, Xiangdong; Wang, Qingpu; Yue, Shubin
The ablation behavior of copper alloy and aluminium irradiated in air by 1.06 μm, 10 ns pulsed laser with power density of 6.4×109W/cm2 was studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), MCS-RBS and X-ray microanalysis. Evidence of bulk vaporization via bubble formation was observed for the copper alloy under the laser irradiation. Silver-enrichment microregions were found in the ablation crater created by the laser shots on the copper alloy sample. Material removal rates of these materials were determined by crater shape-profile measurement. Using self-similar solutions of the gas-dynamic equations, gas-dynamic parameters of the vaporization waves are obtained. These parameters are used to calculate material removal rates and impulse coupling coefficients of these materials under the pulsed laser irradiation. The calculated mass removal rates and the coupling coefficients are compared with the corresponding experimentally determined values. The surface kinetic energy of the irradiated area on the Al sample is estimated. Possible mechanisms for laser ablation of the materials under study are discussed.
Aluminium in Biological Environments: A Computational Approach
Mujika, Jon I; Rezabal, Elixabete; Mercero, Jose M; Ruipérez, Fernando; Costa, Dominique; Ugalde, Jesus M; Lopez, Xabier
The increased availability of aluminium in biological environments, due to human intervention in the last century, raises concerns on the effects that this so far "excluded from biology" metal might have on living organisms. Consequently, the bioinorganic chemistry of aluminium has emerged as a very active field of research. This review will focus on our contributions to this field, based on computational studies that can yield an understanding of the aluminum biochemistry at a molecular level. Aluminium can interact and be stabilized in biological environments by complexing with both low molecular mass chelants and high molecular mass peptides. The speciation of the metal is, nonetheless, dictated by the hydrolytic species dominant in each case and which vary according to the pH condition of the medium. In blood, citrate and serum transferrin are identified as the main low molecular mass and high molecular mass molecules interacting with aluminium. The complexation of aluminium to citrate and the subsequent changes exerted on the deprotonation pathways of its tritable groups will be discussed along with the mechanisms for the intake and release of aluminium in serum transferrin at two pH conditions, physiological neutral and endosomatic acidic. Aluminium can substitute other metals, in particular magnesium, in protein buried sites and trigger conformational disorder and alteration of the protonation states of the protein's sidechains. A detailed account of the interaction of aluminium with proteic sidechains will be given. Finally, it will be described how alumnium can exert oxidative stress by stabilizing superoxide radicals either as mononuclear aluminium or clustered in boehmite. The possibility of promotion of Fenton reaction, and production of hydroxyl radicals will also be discussed. PMID:24757505
Structural study of VO {sub x} doped aluminium fluoride and aluminium oxide catalysts
Scheurell, Kerstin; Scholz, Gudrun; Kemnitz, Erhard
The structural properties of vanadium doped aluminium oxyfluorides and aluminium oxides, prepared by a modified sol-gel synthesis route, were thoroughly investigated. The influence of the preparation technique and the calcination temperature on the coordination of vanadium, aluminium and fluorine was analysed by different spectroscopic methods such as Raman, MAS NMR and ESR spectroscopy. In all samples calcined at low temperatures (350 deg. C), vanadium coexists in two oxidation states V{sup IV} and V{sup V}, with V{sup IV} as dominating species in the vanadium doped aluminium oxyfluorides. In the fluoride containing solids aluminium as well as vanadium are coordinated by fluorine and oxygen. Thermal annealing of 800 deg. C leads to an extensive reorganisation of the original matrices and to the oxidation of V{sup IV} to V{sup V} in both systems. - Graphical abstract: Structure model for VO {sub x} doped aluminium oxide.
Recent advances in joining of aluminium metal matrix composites
Threadgill, P.L.
Studies have been made of the use of friction welding and gas tungsten arc welding to join several types of SiC particulate reinforced aluminium alloys. The joints have been subjected to detailed metallographic assessment, and some mechanical property data are also reported. Friction welding has been shown to be a very suitable process, and good joints were obtained with relative ease. Although bond line strength in the as-welded condition is less than parent material strength, a full solution treatment and age will restore properties. GTA welding is possible on reinforced 2080 and 7475 sheet materials, using either autogenous welding or a 4047A filler. No evidence for particle/matrix reactions was observed, although SiC particles in the melt zone were often surrounded by eutectic or interdendritic phases. Mechanical properties were variable, but could be significantly improved by postweld heat treatment.
The removal of iron from molten aluminium
Donk, H.M. van der; Nijhof, G.H.; Castelijns, C.A.M.
In this work an overview is given about the techniques available for the removal of metallic impurities from molten aluminium. The overview is focused on the removal of iron. Also, some experimental results are given about the creation of iron-rich intermetallic compounds in an aluminium system, which are subsequently removed by gravity segregation and filtration techniques. This work is part of an ongoing research project of three major European aluminium companies who are co-operating on the subject of recycling of aluminium packaging materials recovered from household waste by means of Eddy-Current techniques. Using this technique the pick-up of some contaminating metals, particularly iron, is almost unavoidable.
Aspects of ultra-high-precision diamond machining of RSA 443 optical aluminium
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Mkoko, Z.; Abou-El-Hossein, K.
Optical aluminium alloys such as 6061-T6 are traditionally used in ultra-high precision manufacturing for making optical mirrors for aerospace and other applications. However, the optics industry has recently witnessed the development of more advanced optical aluminium grades that are capable of addressing some of the issues encountered when turning with single-point natural monocrystalline diamond cutters. The advent of rapidly solidified aluminium (RSA) grades has generally opened up new possibilities for ultra-high precision manufacturing of optical components. In this study, experiments were conducted with single-point diamond cutters on rapidly solidified aluminium RSA 443 material. The objective of this study is to observe the effects of depth of cut and feed rate at a fixed rotational speed on the tool wear rate and resulting surface roughness of diamond turned specimens. This is done to gain further understanding of the rate of wear on the diamond cutters versus the surface texture generated on the RSA 443 material. The diamond machining experiments yielded machined surfaces which are less reflective but with consistent surface roughness values. Cutting tools were observed for wear through scanning microscopy; relatively low wear pattern was evident on the diamond tool edge. The highest tool wear were obtained at higher depth of cut and increased feed rate.
Process Simulation of Aluminium Sheet Metal Deep Drawing at Elevated Temperatures
Winklhofer, Johannes; Trattnig, Gernot; Sommitsch, Christof
Lightweight design is essential for an economic and environmentally friendly vehicle. Aluminium sheet metal is well known for its ability to improve the strength to weight ratio of lightweight structures. One disadvantage of aluminium is that it is less formable than steel. Therefore complex part geometries can only be realized by expensive multi-step production processes. One method for overcoming this disadvantage is deep drawing at elevated temperatures. In this way the formability of aluminium sheet metal can be improved significantly, and the number of necessary production steps can thereby be reduced. This paper introduces deep drawing of aluminium sheet metal at elevated temperatures, a corresponding simulation method, a characteristic process and its optimization. The temperature and strain rate dependent material properties of a 5xxx series alloy and their modelling are discussed. A three dimensional thermomechanically coupled finite element deep drawing simulation model and its validation are presented. Based on the validated simulation model an optimised process strategy regarding formability, time and cost is introduced.
The role of TiB2 in strengthening TiB2 reinforced aluminium casting composites
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Chen, Z.; Kang, H.; Zhao, Y.; Zheng, Y.; Wang, T.
With an aim of developing high quality in situ TiB2 reinforced aluminium foundry alloy based composites, the conventional direct synthesis method was modified into a two-step route. In step one we optimized the halide salt route to fabricate in situ TiB2 particulate reinforced aluminium matrix composites and in step two we investigated the effects of the Al-5wt.% TiB2 composite, as a "master composite", on strengthening the practical foundry alloys. The in situ formed TiB2 particles play two roles while strengthening the composites: (1) The grain refinement effect that improves the quality of the alloy matrix; and (2) The interactions between the hard particulates and the matrix add extra increment to the material strength. In different alloy systems, TiB2 may play distinct roles in these two aspects (figure 1). Further analysis of the strengthening mechanisms shows that particle agglomeration behaviour during solidification is responsible for the latter one. The present work details the role of TiB2 in strengthening TiB2 reinforced aluminium casting composites.
Modelling of stress fields during LFEM DC casting of aluminium billets by a meshless method
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Mavrič, B.; Šarler, B.
Direct Chill (DC) casting of aluminium alloys is a widely established technology for efficient production of aluminium billets and slabs. The procedure is being further improved by the application of Low Frequency Electromagnetic Field (LFEM) in the area of the mold. Novel LFEM DC processing technique affects many different phenomena which occur during solidification, one of them being the stresses and deformations present in the billet. These quantities can have a significant effect on the quality of the cast piece, since they impact porosity, hot-tearing and cold cracking. In this contribution a novel local radial basis function collocation method (LRBFCM) is successfully applied to the problem of stress field calculation during the stationary state of DC casting of aluminium alloys. The formulation of the method is presented in detail, followed by the presentation of the tackled physical problem. The model describes the deformations of linearly elastic, inhomogeneous isotropic solid with a given temperature field. The temperature profile is calculated using the in-house developed heat and mass transfer model. The effects of low frequency EM casting process parameters on the vertical, circumferential and radial stress and on the deformation of billet surface are presented. The application of the LFEM appears to decrease the amplitudes of the tensile stress occurring in the billet.
Crashworthiness of Aluminium Tubes; Part 2: Improvement of Hydroforming Operation to Increase Absorption Energy
D'Amours, Guillaume; Rahem, Ahmed; Mayer, Robert; Williams, Bruce; Worswick, Michael
The motivation to reduce overall vehicle weight within the automotive sector drives the substitution of lightweight materials such as aluminium alloys for structural components. Such a substitution requires a significant amount of development to manufacture structurally parts such that the energy absorption characteristics are not sacrificed in the event of crash. The effects of the manufacturing processes on the crash performance of automotive structural components must be better understood to ensure improved crashworthiness. This paper presents results of an experimental and numerical investigation of the crash response and energy absorption properties of impacted hydroformed aluminium alloy tubes. Crash experiments on hydroformed tubes were performed using a deceleration sled test at the General Motors Technical Center. Results from axial crush testing showed that an important parameter that influences the energy absorption characteristics during crash was the thickness reduction caused by circumferential expansion of the tube during hydroforming. It was found that that the energy absorption decreased as the corner radius decreased, which results because of increased thinning. Sensitivity studies of end feeding parameters, such as end feed level and profile, were carried out to evaluate their impact on the energy absorption of the aluminium tubes.
Crashworthiness of Aluminium Tubes; Part 2: Improvement of Hydroforming Operation to Increase Absorption Energy
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
D'Amours, Guillaume; Rahem, Ahmed; Mayer, Robert; Williams, Bruce; Worswick, Michael
The motivation to reduce overall vehicle weight within the automotive sector drives the substitution of lightweight materials such as aluminium alloys for structural components. Such a substitution requires a significant amount of development to manufacture structurally parts such that the energy absorption characteristics are not sacrificed in the event of crash. The effects of the manufacturing processes on the crash performance of automotive structural components must be better understood to ensure improved crashworthiness. This paper presents results of an experimental and numerical investigation of the crash response and energy absorption properties of impacted hydroformed aluminium alloy tubes. Crash experiments on hydroformed tubes were performed using a deceleration sled test at the General Motors Technical Center. Results from axial crush testing showed that an important parameter that influences the energy absorption characteristics during crash was the thickness reduction caused by circumferential expansion of the tube during hydroforming. It was found that that the energy absorption decreased as the corner radius decreased, which results because of increased thinning. Sensitivity studies of end feeding parameters, such as end feed level and profile, were carried out to evaluate their impact on the energy absorption of the aluminium tubes.
Aluminium in the blood and urine of industrially exposed workers.
Sjögren, B; Lundberg, I; Lidums, V
Blood and urine aluminium concentrations were studied in industrially exposed workers using electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry. Welders and workers making aluminium powder and aluminium sulphate had higher concentrations in blood and urine than non-exposed referents. Workers in the electrolytic production of aluminium had higher urine but not blood concentrations than the referents. Thus aluminium was found to be absorbed by all industrially exposed workers. Blood concentrations were lower than those presumably associated with aluminium induced encephalopathy in patients receiving dialysis. PMID:6871119
Surface modification for aluminium pigment inhibition.
Karlsson, Philip; Palmqvist, Anders E C; Holmberg, Krister
This review concerns surface treatment of aluminium pigments for use in water borne coatings. Aluminium pigments are commonly used in coatings to give a silvery and shiny lustre to the substrate. Such paints and inks have traditionally been solvent borne, since aluminium pigment particles react with water. For environmental and health reasons solvent borne coatings are being replaced by water borne and the aluminium pigments then need to be surface modified in order to stand exposure to water. This process is called inhibition and both organic and inorganic substances are used as inhibiting agents. The organic inhibiting agents range from low molecular weight substances, such as phenols and aromatic acids, via surfactants, in particular alkyl phosphates and other anionic amphiphiles, to high molecular weight compounds, such as polyelectrolytes. A common denominator for them all is that they contain a functional group that interacts specifically with aluminium at the surface. A particularly strong interaction is obtained if the inhibiting agent contains functional groups that form chelating complex with surface Al(III). Encapsulation of the pigment can be made by in situ polymerization at the surface of the pigment and a recent approach is to have the polymerization occur within a double layer of adsorbed surfactant. The inorganic route is dominated by coating with silica, and recent progress has been made using an alkoxide, such as tetraethoxysilane as silica precursor. Such silica coated aluminium pigments are comparable in performance to chromate inhibited pigments and thus offer a possible heavy metal-free alternative. There are obvious connections between surface modifications made to prevent the pigment to react with water and inhibition of corrosion of macroscopic aluminium surfaces. PMID:17239333
Aluminium and the human breast.
Darbre, P D
The human population is exposed to aluminium (Al) from diet, antacids and vaccine adjuvants, but frequent application of Al-based salts to the underarm as antiperspirant adds a high additional exposure directly to the local area of the human breast. Coincidentally the upper outer quadrant of the breast is where there is also a disproportionately high incidence of breast cysts and breast cancer. Al has been measured in human breast tissues/fluids at higher levels than in blood, and experimental evidence suggests that at physiologically relevant concentrations, Al can adversely impact on human breast epithelial cell biology. Gross cystic breast disease is the most common benign disorder of the breast and evidence is presented that Al may be a causative factor in formation of breast cysts. Evidence is also reviewed that Al can enable the development of multiple hallmarks associated with cancer in breast cells, in particular that it can cause genomic instability and inappropriate proliferation in human breast epithelial cells, and can increase migration and invasion of human breast cancer cells. In addition, Al is a metalloestrogen and oestrogen is a risk factor for breast cancer known to influence multiple hallmarks. The microenvironment is established as another determinant of breast cancer development and Al has been shown to cause adverse alterations to the breast microenvironment. If current usage patterns of Al-based antiperspirant salts contribute to causation of breast cysts and breast cancer, then reduction in exposure would offer a strategy for prevention, and regulatory review is now justified. PMID:26997127
Fabrication of Nano-Composite Surface Layers on Aluminium Employing Friction Stir Processing Technique
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Bozorg, S. F. K.; Zarghani, A. S.; Zarei-Hanzaki, A.
Al/Al2O3 nano-composite surface layer was fabricated via friction stir processing technique. Commercial AA6082 aluminium alloy extruded bar and nanometric Al2O3 powder were subjected to friction stir processing at a substrate travel speed of 80 mm/min and a tool rotation speed of 1000 rpm using a hardened H-13 tool steel. The grain structure and reinforcement particles were investigated by using optical and scanning electron microscopy. Results show that Al2O3 particles can be more uniformly dispread in aluminium substrate by increasing the number of processing passes. Also, hardness enhancement of the nano-composite surface layer was found. This is attributed to uniform dispersion of Al2O3 particles.
Fabrication of Nano-Composite Surface Layers on Aluminium Employing Friction Stir Processing Technique
Bozorg, S. F. K.; Zarghani, A. S.; Zarei-Hanzaki, A.
Al/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} nano-composite surface layer was fabricated via friction stir processing technique. Commercial AA6082 aluminium alloy extruded bar and nanometric Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} powder were subjected to friction stir processing at a substrate travel speed of 80 mm/min and a tool rotation speed of 1000 rpm using a hardened H-13 tool steel. The grain structure and reinforcement particles were investigated by using optical and scanning electron microscopy. Results show that Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} particles can be more uniformly dispread in aluminium substrate by increasing the number of processing passes. Also, hardness enhancement of the nano-composite surface layer was found. This is attributed to uniform dispersion of Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} particles.
Joining of Aluminium Alloy Sheets by Rectangular Mechanical Clinching
Abe, Y.; Mori, K.; Kato, T.
A mechanical clinching has the advantage of low running costs. However, the joint strength is not high. To improve the maximum load of the joined sheets by a mechanical clinching, square and rectangular mechanical clinching were introduced. In the mechanical clinching, the two sheets are mechanically joined by forming an interlock between the lower and upper sheets by the punch and die. The joined length with the interlock was increased by the rectangular punch and die. The deforming behaviours of the sheets in the mechanical clinching were investigated, and then the interlock in the sheets had distribution in the circumference of the projection. Although the interlocks were formed in both projection side and diagonal, the interlock in the diagonal was smaller because of the long contact length between the lower sheet and the die cavity surface. The maximum load of the joined sheets by the rectangular mechanical clinching was two times larger than the load by the round mechanical clinching.
The rupture of a single liquid aluminium alloy film.
Heim, K; García-Moreno, F; Vinod Kumar, G S; Rack, A; Banhart, J
The present study is based on the idea of understanding the rupture of films in metal foams by studying free standing metallic films as a model system. Liquid dynamics, the velocity of the rupturing material as well as the behaviour of ceramic particles inside the melt were analysed optically ex situ and by synchrotron X-ray radiography in situ. It was found that the resistance of films to rupture is mainly based on the interaction between solid particles and an immobile oxide skin, the formation of which depends on the oxygen content of the surrounding atmosphere and the presence of magnesium. PMID:24854899
Investigation of detonation initiation in aluminium suspensions
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Veyssiere, B.; Khasainov, B. A.; Briand, A.
Detonation initiation is investigated in aluminium/oxygen and aluminium/air mixtures. Critical conditions for initiation of spherical detonations are examined in analogy with the criteria defined for gaseous mixtures, which correlate critical parameters of detonation initiation to the characteristic size of the cellular structure. However, experimental data on the detonation cell size in these two-phase mixtures are very scarce, on account of the difficulty to perform large-scale experiments. Therefore, 2D numerical simulations of the detonation cellular structure have been undertaken, with the same combustion model for Al/air and Al/O2 mixtures. The cell size is found to be λ = 37.5 cm for a rich ( r = 1.61) aluminium-air mixture, and λ = 7.5 cm for a stoichiometric aluminium-oxygen mixture, which is in reasonable agreement with available experimental data. Calculations performed in large-scale configurations (up to 25 m in length and 1.5 m in lateral direction) suggest that the critical initiation energy and predetonation radius for direct initiation of the unconfined detonation in the aluminium-air mixture are, respectively, 10 kg of TNT and 8 m. Moreover, numerical simulations reveal that the structure of the detonation wave behind the leading front is even more complicated than in pure gaseous mixtures, due to two-phase flow effects.
Facile Synthesis of Smart Nanocontainers as Key Components for Construction of Self-Healing Coating with Superhydrophobic Surfaces.
Liang, Yi; Wang, MingDong; Wang, Cheng; Feng, Jing; Li, JianSheng; Wang, LianJun; Fu, JiaJun
SiO2-imidazoline nanocomposites (SiO2-IMI) owning high loading capacity of corrosion inhibitor, 1-hexadecyl-3-methylimidazolium bromide (HMID), and a special acid/alkali dual-stimuli-accelerated release property have been synthesized via a one-step modified Stöber method. SiO2-IMI were uniformly distributed into the hydrophobic SiO2 sol to construct "host"-"guest" feedback active coating with a superhydrophobic surface (SiO2-IMI@SHSC) on aluminium alloy, AA2024, by dip-coating technique. SiO2-IMI as "guest" components have good compatibility with "host" sol-gel coating, and more importantly, once localized corrosion occurs on the surface of AA2024, SiO2-IMI can simultaneously respond to the increase in environmental pH around corrosive micro-cathodic regions and decrease in pH near micro-anodic regions, promptly releasing HMID to form a compact molecular film on the damaged surface, inhibiting corrosion spread and executing a self-healing function. The scanning vibrating electrode technique (SVET) was applied to illustrate the suppression process of cathodic/anodic corrosion activities. Furthermore, benefiting from the superhydrophobic surface, SiO2-IMI@SHSC remained its protective ability after immersion in 0.5 M NaCl solution for 35 days, which is far superior to the conventional sol-gel coating with the same coating thickness. The facile fabrication method of SiO2-IMI simplifies the construction procedure of SiO2-IMI@SHSC, which have great potential to replace non-environmental chromate conversion coatings for practical use. PMID:27121439
Facile Synthesis of Smart Nanocontainers as Key Components for Construction of Self-Healing Coating with Superhydrophobic Surfaces
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Liang, Yi; Wang, MingDong; Wang, Cheng; Feng, Jing; Li, JianSheng; Wang, LianJun; Fu, JiaJun
SiO2-imidazoline nanocomposites (SiO2-IMI) owning high loading capacity of corrosion inhibitor, 1-hexadecyl-3-methylimidazolium bromide (HMID), and a special acid/alkali dual-stimuli-accelerated release property have been synthesized via a one-step modified Stöber method. SiO2-IMI were uniformly distributed into the hydrophobic SiO2 sol to construct "host"-"guest" feedback active coating with a superhydrophobic surface (SiO2-IMI@SHSC) on aluminium alloy, AA2024, by dip-coating technique. SiO2-IMI as "guest" components have good compatibility with "host" sol-gel coating, and more importantly, once localized corrosion occurs on the surface of AA2024, SiO2-IMI can simultaneously respond to the increase in environmental pH around corrosive micro-cathodic regions and decrease in pH near micro-anodic regions, promptly releasing HMID to form a compact molecular film on the damaged surface, inhibiting corrosion spread and executing a self-healing function. The scanning vibrating electrode technique (SVET) was applied to illustrate the suppression process of cathodic/anodic corrosion activities. Furthermore, benefiting from the superhydrophobic surface, SiO2-IMI@SHSC remained its protective ability after immersion in 0.5 M NaCl solution for 35 days, which is far superior to the conventional sol-gel coating with the same coating thickness. The facile fabrication method of SiO2-IMI simplifies the construction procedure of SiO2-IMI@SHSC, which have great potential to replace non-environmental chromate conversion coatings for practical use.
Effect of aluminium chloride on human spermatozoa
Kaur, S.
Aluminium (Al), which is the most prevalent metal in the earth's crust, has been implicated as an etiological factor in a variety of clinical disorders. Only recently Al has been discussed in the pathogenesis of the parenteral nutrition - associated liver disease. Included in this report are the preliminary findings on its effects on the reproductive functions of human beings.
Molecular breeding of cereals for aluminium resistance
Technology Transfer Automated Retrieval System (TEKTRAN)
Aluminium (Al3+) toxicity is the primary factor limiting crop production on acidic soils worldwide. In addition to an application of lime for soil amelioration, Al3+ resistant plant varieties have been deployed to raise productivity on such hostile soils. This has been possible due to the exploita...
An ultrafast rechargeable aluminium-ion battery
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Lin, Meng-Chang; Gong, Ming; Lu, Bingan; Wu, Yingpeng; Wang, Di-Yan; Guan, Mingyun; Angell, Michael; Chen, Changxin; Yang, Jiang; Hwang, Bing-Joe; Dai, Hongjie
The development of new rechargeable battery systems could fuel various energy applications, from personal electronics to grid storage. Rechargeable aluminium-based batteries offer the possibilities of low cost and low flammability, together with three-electron-redox properties leading to high capacity. However, research efforts over the past 30 years have encountered numerous problems, such as cathode material disintegration, low cell discharge voltage (about 0.55 volts ref. 5), capacitive behaviour without discharge voltage plateaus (1.1-0.2 volts or 1.8-0.8 volts) and insufficient cycle life (less than 100 cycles) with rapid capacity decay (by 26-85 per cent over 100 cycles). Here we present a rechargeable aluminium battery with high-rate capability that uses an aluminium metal anode and a three-dimensional graphitic-foam cathode. The battery operates through the electrochemical deposition and dissolution of aluminium at the anode, and intercalation/de-intercalation of chloroaluminate anions in the graphite, using a non-flammable ionic liquid electrolyte. The cell exhibits well-defined discharge voltage plateaus near 2 volts, a specific capacity of about 70 mA h g-1 and a Coulombic efficiency of approximately 98 per cent. The cathode was found to enable fast anion diffusion and intercalation, affording charging times of around one minute with a current density of ~4,000 mA g-1 (equivalent to ~3,000 W kg-1), and to withstand more than 7,500 cycles without capacity decay.
Toxicity of dissolved and precipitated aluminium to marine diatoms.
Gillmore, Megan L; Golding, Lisa A; Angel, Brad M; Adams, Merrin S; Jolley, Dianne F
Localised aluminium contamination can lead to high concentrations in coastal waters, which have the potential for adverse effects on aquatic organisms. This research investigated the toxicity of 72-h exposures of aluminium to three marine diatoms (Ceratoneis closterium (formerly Nitzschia closterium), Minutocellus polymorphus and Phaeodactylum tricornutum) by measuring population growth rate inhibition and cell membrane damage (SYTOX Green) as endpoints. Toxicity was correlated to the time-averaged concentrations of different aluminium size-fractions, operationally defined as <0.025μm filtered, <0.45μm filtered (dissolved) and unfiltered (total) present in solution over the 72-h bioassay. The chronic population growth rate inhibition after aluminium exposure varied between diatom species. C. closterium was the most sensitive species (10% inhibition of growth rate (72-h IC10) of 80 (55-100)μg Al/L (95% confidence limits)) while M. polymorphus (540 (460-600)μg Al/L) and P. tricornutum (2100 (2000-2200)μg Al/L) were less sensitive (based on measured total aluminium). Dissolved aluminium was the primary contributor to toxicity in C. closterium, while a combination of dissolved and precipitated aluminium forms contributed to toxicity in M. polymorphus. In contrast, aluminium toxicity to the most tolerant diatom P. tricornutum was due predominantly to precipitated aluminium. Preliminary investigations revealed the sensitivity of C. closterium and M. polymorphus to aluminium was influenced by initial cell density with aluminium toxicity significantly (p<0.05) increasing with initial cell density from 10(3) to 10(5)cells/mL. No effects on plasma membrane permeability were observed for any of the three diatoms suggesting that mechanisms of aluminium toxicity to diatoms do not involve compromising the plasma membrane. These results indicate that marine diatoms have a broad range in sensitivity to aluminium with toxic mechanisms related to both dissolved and precipitated
Fires in storages of LFO: Analysis of hazard of structural collapse of steel-aluminium containers.
Rebec, A; Kolšek, J; Plešec, P
Pool fires of light fuel oil (LFO) in above-ground storages with steel-aluminium containers are discussed. A model is developed for assessments of risks of between-tank fire spread. Radiative effects of the flame body are accounted for by a solid flame radiation model. Thermal profiles evolved due to fire in the adjacent tanks and their consequential structural response is pursued in an exact (materially and geometrically non-linear) manner. The model's derivation is demonstrated on the LFO tank storage located near the Port of Koper (Slovenia). In support of the model, data from literature are adopted where appropriate. Analytical expressions are derived correspondingly for calculations of emissive characteristics of LFO pool fires. Additional data are collected from experiments. Fire experiments conducted on 300cm diameter LFO pans and at different wind speeds and high-temperature uniaxial tension tests of the analysed aluminium alloys types 3xxx and 6xxx are presented. The model is of an immediate fire engineering practical value (risk analyses) or can be used for further research purposes (e.g. sensitivity and parametric studies). The latter use is demonstrated in the final part of the paper discussing possible effects of high-temperature creep of 3xxx aluminium. PMID:26802486
Aluminium ultrahigh vacuum system for the 3 GeV TPS synchrotron light source
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Hsiung, G. Y.; Chang, C. C.; Chen, C. L.; Wu, L. H.; Cheng, C. M.; Chan, C. K.; Yang, Y. C.; Hsueh, H. P.; Hsu, S. N.; Chen, J. R.
The 3-GeV Taiwan Photon Source (TPS) is a large accelerator and synchrotron light source of circumference 518.4 m. The electron storage ring of TPS requires an ultrahigh-vacuum pressure per beam current less than 2×10-10 Pa/mA in the beam duct to maintain a long life of the circulating beam without scattering of ions by residual gases. Aluminium alloys used for the beam ducts have a benefit of greater thermal conductivity that simplifies the structure of vacuum vessels built with the cooling components. Machining completely free of oil applied to the aluminium chambers followed by cleaning with ozonized water and welding in house provide a precise dimensional control within 0.3 mm and a clean surface with a small rate ~ 6.4×10-12 Pa m/s of thermal outgassing after baking at 150 °C for 24 h. The assembled ion pump with non-evaporable getter pump is capable of evacuating the chamber to a pressure < 1×10-9 Pa. The average pressure inside the duct is expected to be sufficiently small. The clean process to manufacture the aluminium ultrahigh vacuum system is described.
Aspects of fabrication aluminium matrix heterophase composites by suspension method
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Dolata, A. J.; Dyzia, M.
Composites with an aluminium alloy matrix (AlMMC) exhibit several advantageous properties such as good strength, stiffness, low density, resistance and dimensional stability to elevated temperatures, good thermal expansion coefficient and particularly high resistance to friction wear. Therefore such composites are more and more used in modern engineering constructions. Composites reinforced with hard ceramic particles (Al2O3, SiC) are gradually being implemented into production in automotive or aircraft industries. Another application of AlMMC is in the electronics industry, where the dimensional stability and capacity to absorb and remove heat is used in radiators. However the main problems are still: a reduction of production costs, developing methods of composite material tests and final product quality assessment, standardisation, development of recycling and mechanical processing methods. AlMMC production technologies, based on liquid-phase methods, and the shaping of products by casting methods, belong to the cheapest production methods. Application of a suspension method for the production of composites with heterophase reinforcement may turn out to be a new material and technological solution. The article presents the material and technological aspects of the transfer procedures for the production of composite suspensions from laboratory scale to a semi-industrial scale.
Laser welding of copper and aluminium battery interconnections
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
De Bono, Paola; Blackburn, Jon
The adoption of lithium-ion and/or super-capacitor battery technologies is a current hot topic in the automotive industry. For both battery types, the terminals and busbars are manufactured from copper (Cu) and/or aluminium-based (Al-based) alloys, as a result of their high electrical and thermal conductivities. Laser welding is considered an attractive process to industry due to its easy automotability, high processing speed and highly repeatable cost-effective processing. However, laser welding of Cu-Cu and Al-Al joints presents several difficulties due to the high surface reflectivity at infrared (IR) wavelengths. This behaviour becomes even more critical when processing thin sheets and foils.This paper summarises recent work performed to develop laser welding techniques suitable for monometallic joining of Cu-Cu and Al-Al electrical interconnections. Laser welding of multiple overlapped foils (with thickness in the range of 17μm-100μm) were investigated.
Fabrication of ultra-fine grained aluminium tubes by RTES technique
Jafarzadeh, H. Abrinia, K.
Recently, repetitive tube expansion and shrinking have been exploited as a means for producing ultra-fine grained and nano-crystalline microstructures for magnesium alloy tubes. This method includes two different half-cycles and was based on pressing a tubular part through an angular channel die with two shear zones. Since the aluminium alloys are the most widely used materials in industries, in this study, repetitive tube expansion and shrinking as a new severe plastic deformation technique was applied to commercially pure aluminium for fabricating ultra-fine grained aluminium tubes for the first time and the ability of this process in significant grain refinement is determined even after single cycle. Transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction were used to evaluate the microstructure of the repetitive tube expansion and shrinking processed materials and the examinations showed ultra-fine grains with the average grain size of 320 nm after one cycle of repetitive tube expansion and shrinking. The yield strength, ultimate tensile strength increased notably by the factor of 2.17 and 1.27 respectively, after one cycle of repetitive tube expansion and shrinking, whereas the elongation to failure as well as the uniform elongation decreased. Furthermore, micro-hardness distribution through the part's section proposed the hardness increasing to ~ 55 HV from the initial value of ~ 28 HV after one cycle of repetitive tube expansion and shrinking. - Highlights: • RTES was introduced for fabricating the UFGed AA1050 tubes for the first time. • Nano-grained AA1050 tube was obtained by RTES process. • Grain size of ~ 320 nm was obtained after two half-cycles of RTES process. • Yield and ultimate strength increased by the factor of 2.17 and 1.27 respectively. • The microhardness increased to ~ 55 HV from the initial value of ~ 28 HV.
A numerical analysis of empty and foam-filled aluminium conical tubes under oblique impact loading
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Mat, Fauziah; Ismail, Khairul Azwan; Yaacob, Sazali
In real impact applications, an energy absorber rarely sustains dynamic loading either axial or oblique but a combination of both. Established studies have proved that thin-walled tube is an excellent energy absorber under dynamic loading. Furthermore, the introduction of foam filling successfully enhanced the energy absorption capacity of thin-walled tube. However, the understanding of its response under oblique loading has yet been fully explored. Moreover, emerging in automotive industry has lead to increase interests on lightweight materials such as aluminium alloy. As such, this paper presents the crushing behaviour of empty and foam-filled aluminium alloy (AA6061-T6) conical tubes under oblique impact loading using a validated nonlinear finite element (FE) code, LS-DYNA. The study aims to assess the effect of foam filling on the energy absorption of AA6061-T6 tubes for variations in filler density. In fact, to the best of our knowledge, this study is the first attempt to evaluate a response of empty and foam-filled aluminum conical tube by using an experimentally validated model under oblique dynamic loading conditions. Good correlations between the numerical and experimental results were observed. The study show that initial peak force and the energy absorption increase with increasing filler density under axial and oblique loading. On the other hand, the effect of foam filling (0.534 g/cm3 aluminium foam filler) is less pronounced for the initial peak force under axial impact loading. Furthermore, the initial peak force and dynamic force of empty and foam-filled AA6061-T6 conical tubes decrease as the load angle increases from 0 deg to 20 deg hence reduces the energy absorption capacity.
Bladder cancer in the aluminium industry.
Thériault, G; Tremblay, C; Cordier, S; Gingras, S
The incidence of bladder cancer is unusually high in aluminium smelter workers. An epidemiological study showed that workers in Soderberg potrooms are at highest risk for bladder cancer, the adjusted overall relative risk being 2.39 (1.34-4.28). Exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, of which benz(a)pyrene (BaP) served as an indicator, seems to be the causative factor. The relative risk was evaluated at 12.38 for workers with 20 or more equivalent years of BaP exposure. Cigarette smoking contributed significantly to the appearance of bladder cancer in the population studied. There is a synergistic effect when cigarette smoking and BaP exposure are combined; the numbers in our population are too small to determine whether this interaction effect is multiplicative or additive. It is concluded that bladder cancer is associated with aluminium smelting (primarily with the Soderberg process). PMID:6143877
An ultrafast rechargeable aluminium-ion battery.
Lin, Meng-Chang; Gong, Ming; Lu, Bingan; Wu, Yingpeng; Wang, Di-Yan; Guan, Mingyun; Angell, Michael; Chen, Changxin; Yang, Jiang; Hwang, Bing-Joe; Dai, Hongjie
The development of new rechargeable battery systems could fuel various energy applications, from personal electronics to grid storage. Rechargeable aluminium-based batteries offer the possibilities of low cost and low flammability, together with three-electron-redox properties leading to high capacity. However, research efforts over the past 30 years have encountered numerous problems, such as cathode material disintegration, low cell discharge voltage (about 0.55 volts; ref. 5), capacitive behaviour without discharge voltage plateaus (1.1-0.2 volts or 1.8-0.8 volts) and insufficient cycle life (less than 100 cycles) with rapid capacity decay (by 26-85 per cent over 100 cycles). Here we present a rechargeable aluminium battery with high-rate capability that uses an aluminium metal anode and a three-dimensional graphitic-foam cathode. The battery operates through the electrochemical deposition and dissolution of aluminium at the anode, and intercalation/de-intercalation of chloroaluminate anions in the graphite, using a non-flammable ionic liquid electrolyte. The cell exhibits well-defined discharge voltage plateaus near 2 volts, a specific capacity of about 70 mA h g(-1) and a Coulombic efficiency of approximately 98 per cent. The cathode was found to enable fast anion diffusion and intercalation, affording charging times of around one minute with a current density of ~4,000 mA g(-1) (equivalent to ~3,000 W kg(-1)), and to withstand more than 7,500 cycles without capacity decay. PMID:25849777
Feet sunk in molten aluminium: The burn and its prevention.
Alonso-Peña, David; Arnáiz-García, María Elena; Valero-Gasalla, Javier Luis; Arnáiz-García, Ana María; Campillo-Campaña, Ramón; Alonso-Peña, Javier; González-Santos, Jose María; Fernández-Díaz, Alaska Leonor; Arnáiz, Javier
Nowadays, despite improvements in safety rules and inspections in the metal industry, foundry workers are not free from burn accidents. Injuries caused by molten metals include burns secondary to molten iron, aluminium, zinc, copper, brass, bronze, manganese, lead and steel. Molten aluminium is one of the most common causative agents of burns (60%); however, only a few publications exist concerning injuries from molten aluminium. The main mechanisms of lesion from molten aluminium include direct contact of the molten metal with the skin or through safety apparel, or when the metal splash burns through the pants and rolls downward along the leg. Herein, we report three cases of deep dermal burns after 'soaking' the foot in liquid aluminium and its evolutive features. This paper aims to show our experience in the management of burns due to molten aluminium. We describe the current management principles and the key features of injury prevention. PMID:25687835
Inhalation exposure in secondary aluminium smelting.
Healy, J; Bradley, S D; Northage, C; Scobbie, E
Inhalation exposure at seven UK secondary aluminium smelters was investigated to quantify the main exposures and identify their sources. The substances monitored were gases (carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulphide and nitrogen dioxide), total inhalable dust, metals, ammonia, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), particulate fluoride salts and acids. The results showed that people were exposed to a range of workplace air pollutants. Personal exposure results for total inhalable dust were between 700 and 5600 microg x m(-3) and the maximum personal exposure result for particulate fluoride salts was 690 microg x m(-3) (as F). The maximum aluminium, total PAH and lead personal exposure results were 900, 19 and 18 microg x m(-3) respectively. The average proportion of aluminium in total inhalable dust samples was 13% and rotary furnace processes generated the most dust. Particulate fluoride salt exposure was more widespread than hydrofluoric acid exposure. The source of the salt exposure was fluoride containing fluxes. The lead exposure source was lead solder contamination in the furnace charge. PMID:11295145
Plasmonic enhancement of photoluminescence from aluminium nitride
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Flynn, Chris; Stewart, Matthew
Aluminium nitride (AlN) films were grown on c-plane sapphire wafers by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) under aluminium-rich conditions. The excess aluminium (Al) accumulated on the surface of the films as micro-scale droplets 1-10 μm in size, and as Al nanoparticles with diameters in the range 10-110 nm. Photoluminescence (PL) measurements were performed on the AlN samples using a 193 nm Excimer laser as the excitation source. Prior to PL measurements the wafers were cleaved in half. One half of each wafer was submitted to a 10 min treatment in H3PO4 heated to 70 °C to remove the excess Al from the film surface. The remaining half was left in the as-deposited condition. The mean intensities of the near-band-edge PL peaks of the as-deposited samples were 2.0-3.4 times higher compared to the samples subjected to the H3PO4 Al-removal treatment. This observation motivated calculations to determine the optimal Al surface nanosphere size for plasmonic enhancement of PL from AlN. The PL enhancement was found to peak for an Al nanosphere radius of 15 nm, which is within the range of the experimentally-observed Al nanoparticle sizes.
Improving the Crashworthiness of Aluminium Rail Vehicles
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Zangani, Donato; Robinson, Mark; Kotsikos, George
An experimental and modelling programme of work have been undertaken to predict the performance of aluminium welds in rail vehicles under highly dynamic loading conditions and provide design guidelines to reduce the likelihood of the occurrence of weld unzipping. Modelling of weld unzipping in large rail structures is a challenging task since it requires to deal with material instability, to take into account the uncertainties in material parameters and to address the problem of mesh resolution which together pose severe challenges to computability. The proposed methodology to the prediction of weld failure is based on the validation of the numerical models through correlation with laboratory scale tearing tests. The tearing tests were conducted on samples taken from real rail extrusions with the purpose of obtaining the failure parameters under dynamic loading and understanding the effect of weld material composition on joint behaviour. The validated material models were used to construct a FEA simulation of the collision of an aluminium rail car and investigate the effect of both joint geometry and welding techniques on the failure mechanism. Comparisons of the model with the failures observed in an aluminium rail vehicle that was involved in a high speed collision, have shown that it is possible to model the phenomenon of weld unzipping with good accuracy. The numerical models have also been used as a tool for the optimisation of joint design to improve crashworthiness.
Aluminum-lithium alloys in helicopters
Smith, A.F.
Aluminium-lithium alloys are widely applied on the EH101 helicopter, designed and built jointly by GKN Westland Helicopters of England and Agusta S.p.A. of Italy. With the exception of the powder metallurgy alloy AA 5091, all the current commercially available aluminum-lithium alloys are produced by direct-chill casting, and require a precipitation-aging heat treatment to achieve the required properties. In aluminum-lithium alloys containing greater than 1.3% (by weight) of lithium, the intermetallic phase {delta}{prime}-Al{sub 3}Li precipitates upon natural or artificial aging, but the associated strengthening effect is insufficient to meet the medium or high strength levels usually required (the damage tolerant temper in AA 8090 is an exception).
The aluminium content of infant formulas remains too high
Background Recent research published in this journal highlighted the issue of the high content of aluminium in infant formulas. The expectation was that the findings would serve as a catalyst for manufacturers to address a significant problem of these, often necessary, components of infant nutrition. It is critically important that parents and other users have confidence in the safety of infant formulas and that they have reliable information to use in choosing a product with a lower content of aluminium. Herein, we have significantly extended the scope of the previous research and the aluminium content of 30 of the most widely available and often used infant formulas has been measured. Methods Both ready-to-drink milks and milk powders were subjected to microwave digestion in the presence of 15.8 M HNO3 and 30% w/v H2O2 and the aluminium content of the digests was measured by TH GFAAS. Results Both ready-to-drink milks and milk powders were contaminated with aluminium. The concentration of aluminium across all milk products ranged from ca 100 to 430 μg/L. The concentration of aluminium in two soya-based milk products was 656 and 756 μg/L. The intake of aluminium from non-soya-based infant formulas varied from ca 100 to 300 μg per day. For soya-based milks it could be as high as 700 μg per day. Conclusions All 30 infant formulas were contaminated with aluminium. There was no clear evidence that subsequent to the problem of aluminium being highlighted in a previous publication in this journal that contamination had been addressed and reduced. It is the opinion of the authors that regulatory and other non-voluntary methods are now required to reduce the aluminium content of infant formulas and thereby protect infants from chronic exposure to dietary aluminium. PMID:24103160
Cold-impregnated aluminium. A new source of nickel exposure.
Lidén, C
A new technique for finishing anodized aluminium was introduced during the 1980s--cold impregnation with nickel. Nickel is available on the surface of cold-impregnated aluminium, as shown by the dimethylglyoxime test. Chemical analysis with EDXA showed that nickel was in the form of NiSO4. A case of work-related allergic contact dermatitis in an engraver with nickel allergy is reported. It transpired that the patient was exposed to nickel in connection with aluminium. It is concluded that cold-impregnated aluminium is a new source of nickel exposure, probably previously unknown to dermatologists. PMID:7924288
Production of aluminium metal matrix composites by liquid processing methods
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Hynes, N. Rajesh Jesudoss; Kumar, R.; Tharmaraj, R.; Velu, P. Shenbaga
Owing to high strength to low weight ratio, Aluminium matrix composites are widely used in diverse applications of many industries. This lucrative property is achieved by reinforcing the brittle ceramic particles in the aluminium matrix. Aluminium matrix composites are produced by liquid processing methods and solid processing methods. Nevertheless, liquidprocessing techniques stand out because of its simplicity and its suitability for mass production. In this review article, the production of aluminium matrix composites by different liquid processing technique is discussed and a comparative study is carried out.
Grain Refinement of an Al-2 wt%Cu Alloy by Al3Ti1B Master Alloy and Ultrasonic Treatment
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Wang, E. Q.; Wang, G.; Dargusch, M. S.; Qian, M.; Eskin, D. G.; StJohn, D. H.
Both inoculation by AlTiB master alloys and Ultrasonic Treatment (UT) are effective methods of refining the grain size of aluminium alloys. The present study investigates the influence of UT on the grain refinement of an Al-2 wt% Cu alloy with a range of Al3TilB master alloy additions. When the alloy contains the smallest amount of added master alloy, UT caused significant additional grain refinement compared with that provided by the master alloy only. However, the influence of UT on grain size reduces with increasing addition of the master alloy. Plotting the grain size data versus the inverse of the growth restriction factor (Q) reveals that the application of UT causes both an increase in the number of potentially active nuclei and a decrease in the size of the nucleation free zone due to a reduction in the temperature gradient throughout the melt. Both these factors promote the formation of a fine equiaxed grain structure.
A study on the surface shape and roughness of aluminum alloy for heat exchanger using ball end milling
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Lee, E.; Kim, Y.; jeong, H.; Chung, H.
Aluminum alloy is a material with a high strength-weight ratio and excellent thermal conductivity. It neither readily corrodes nor quickly weakens at low temperatures, but can be easily recycled. Because of these features, aluminum heat exchangers are widely used in aluminum alloy. In addition, the aluminum alloy used in other areas is expected to gradually increase. As a result, researchers have been continuously studying the cutting patterns of aluminium alloy. However, such studies are fewer than those on the cutting patterns of ordinary steel. Moreover, the research on ball end milling with aluminium alloys has not received much attention. Therefore, in this study, an attempt was made to find the optimal cutting pattern among the seven cutting patterns for the machining of the commonly used aluminum alloy using ball end milling for a heat exchanger. The optimal pattern was found by comparing the different shapes and surface roughness values produced by the seven patterns.
Lead alloys: past, present and future
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Bagshaw, N. E.
The most critical non-active component in the lead/acid battery is the grid or substrate. A review of the work on grids and grid alloys in the period 1960-1993 has been carried out by the Advanced Lead-Acid Battery Consortium and, in this paper, the results are analyzed in relation to the effort expended on different alloy systems. Lead-antimony alloys and the effects on them of additions of arsenic, tin, and grain-refining elements (selenium, sulfur, copper), together with lead-calcium alloys and the effect on them of tin additions, have received the greatest attention in the past. Proposals are made for future studies. Possible evolutionary developments include the addition of silver and higher amounts of tin to lead-calcium alloys, more detailed investigations of lead-strontium and lead-lithium alloys containing tin and/or silver, and further work on very-low-antimony alloys. More speculative projects are very rapidly cooled alloys, the use of aluminium as grids or spines, plastic/lead-coated copper negative grids, corrosion-resistant coatings of lead compounds on the grids and, finally, a substrate for a bipolar plate that is based on conductive inorganic compounds.
Prevalence of beryllium sensitization among aluminium smelter workers
Slade, M. D.; Cantley, L. F.; Kirsche, S. R.; Wesdock, J. C.; Cullen, M. R.
Background Beryllium exposure occurs in aluminium smelters from natural contamination of bauxite, the principal source of aluminium. Aims To characterize beryllium exposure in aluminium smelters and determine the prevalence rate of beryllium sensitization (BeS) among aluminium smelter workers. Methods A population of 3185 workers from nine aluminium smelters owned by four different aluminium-producing companies were determined to have significant beryllium exposure. Of these, 1932 workers participated in medical surveillance programmes that included the serum beryllium lymphocyte proliferation test (BeLPT), confirmation of sensitization by at least two abnormal BeLPT test results and further evaluation for chronic beryllium disease in workers with BeS. Results Personal beryllium samples obtained from the nine aluminium smelters showed a range of <0.01–13.00 μg/m3 time-weighted average with an arithmetic mean of 0.25 μg/m3 and geometric mean of 0.06 μg/m3. Nine workers were diagnosed with BeS (prevalence rate of 0.47%, 95% confidence interval = 0.21–0.88%). Conclusions BeS can occur in aluminium smelter workers through natural beryllium contamination of the bauxite and further concentration during the refining and smelting processes. Exposure levels to beryllium observed in aluminium smelters are similar to those seen in other industries that utilize beryllium. However, compared with beryllium-exposed workers in other industries, the rate of BeS among aluminium smelter workers appears lower. This lower observed rate may be related to a more soluble form of beryllium found in the aluminium smelting work environment as well as the consistent use of respiratory protection. PMID:20610489
Separation of actinides from irradiated An-Zr based fuel by electrorefining on solid aluminium cathodes in molten LiCl-KCl
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Souček, P.; Murakami, T.; Claux, B.; Meier, R.; Malmbeck, R.; Tsukada, T.; Glatz, J.-P.
An electrorefining process for metallic spent nuclear fuel treatment is being investigated in ITU. Solid aluminium cathodes are used for homogeneous recovery of all actinides within the process carried out in molten LiCl-KCl eutectic salt at a temperature of 500 °C. As the selectivity, efficiency and performance of solid Al has been already shown using un-irradiated An-Zr alloy based test fuels, the present work was focused on laboratory-scale demonstration of the process using irradiated METAPHIX-1 fuel composed of U67-Pu19-Zr10-MA2-RE2 (wt.%, MA = Np, Am, Cm, RE = Nd, Ce, Gd, Y). Different electrorefining techniques, conditions and cathode geometries were used during the experiment yielding evaluation of separation factors, kinetic parameters of actinide-aluminium alloy formation, process efficiency and macro-structure characterisation of the deposits. The results confirmed an excellent separation and very high efficiency of the electrorefining process using solid Al cathodes.
Aluminium salt slag characterization and utilization--a review.
Tsakiridis, P E
Aluminium salt slag (also known as aluminium salt cake), which is produced by the secondary aluminium industry, is formed during aluminium scrap/dross melting and contains 15-30% aluminium oxide, 30-55% sodium chloride, 15-30% potassium chloride, 5-7% metallic aluminium and impurities (carbides, nitrides, sulphides and phosphides). Depending on the raw mix the amount of salt slag produced per tonne of secondary aluminium ranges from 200 to 500 kg. As salt slag has been classified as toxic and hazardous waste, it should be managed in compliance with the current legislation. Its landfill disposal is forbidden in most of the European countries and it should be recycled and processed in a proper way by taking the environmental impact into consideration. This paper presents a review of the aluminium salt slag chemical and mineralogical characteristics, as well as various processes for metal recovery, recycling of sodium and potassium chlorides content back to the smelting process and preparation of value added products from the final non metallic residue. PMID:22480708
Hans Thieme, Cornelis Leo; Thompson, Elliott D.; Fritzemeier, Leslie G.; Cameron, Robert D.; Siegal, Edward J.
An alloy that contains at least two metals and can be used as a substrate for a superconductor is disclosed. The alloy can contain an oxide former. The alloy can have a biaxial or cube texture. The substrate can be used in a multilayer superconductor, which can further include one or more buffer layers disposed between the substrate and the superconductor material. The alloys can be made a by process that involves first rolling the alloy then annealing the alloy. A relatively large volume percentage of the alloy can be formed of grains having a biaxial or cube texture.
Decrease in electrical resistance of surface oxide of iron-chromium-aluminium alloy by La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3 coating and heat treatment for the application of metal-supported solid oxide fuel cells
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Pham, Hung-Cuong; Taniguchi, Shunsuke; Inoue, Yuko; Chou, Jyh-Tyng; Izumi, Toru; Matsuoka, Koji; Sasaki, Kazunari
We have investigated the property of a Fe-Cr-Al-type stainless steel as a porous alloy substrate for metal-supported solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) especially on the cathode side. We found that the microstructure and electrical resistance of the surface oxide layer of the alloy changes depending on the heat-treatment conditions. A relatively low electrical resistance was obtained when the porous alloy substrate was coated with La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3 (LSCF) and heat treated at 700-800 °C in air. The morphology of the surface oxide layer observed by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy was a columnar structure of γ-Al2O3 polycrystal and Sr3Al2O6 growing outward in the same direction. In contrast, the surface oxide layer of the alloy showed a high electrical resistance when the uncoated porous alloy substrate was heat treated. The morphology of the surface oxide layer in that case was a columnar structure consisting of only γ-Al2O3 growing outward in various directions.
Aluminium Electroplating on Steel from a Fused Bromide Electrolyte
Prabhat Tripathy; Laura Wurth; Eric Dufek; Toni Y. Gutknecht; Natalie Gese; Paula Hahn; Steven Frank; Guy Fredrickson; J Stephen Herring
A quaternary bromide bath (LiBr-KBr-CsBr-AlBr3) was used to electro-coat aluminium on steel substrates. The electrolyte was prepared by the addition of AlBr3 into the eutectic LiBr-KBr-CsBr melt. A smooth, thick, adherent and shiny aluminium coating could be obtained with 80 wt.% AlBr3 in the ternary melt. The SEM photographs of the coated surfaces suggest the formation of thick and dense coatings with good aluminium coverage. Both salt immersion and open circuit potential measurement suggest that the coatings did display good corrosion-resistance behavior. Annealing of the coated surfaces, prior to corrosion tests, suggested the robustness of the metallic aluminium coating in preventing the corrosion of the steel surfaces. Studies also indicated that the quaternary bromide plating bath can potentially provide a better aluminium coating on both ferrous and non-ferrous metals, including complex surfaces/geometries.
Galvanised steel to aluminium joining by laser and GTAW processes
Sierra, G.; Peyre, P.; Deschaux Beaume, F. Stuart, D.; Fras, G.
A new means of assembling galvanised steel to aluminium involving a reaction between solid steel and liquid aluminium was developed, using laser and gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) processes. A direct aluminium melting strategy was investigated with the laser process, whereas an aluminium-induced melting by steel heating and heat conduction through the steel was carried out with the GTAW process. The interfaces generated during the interaction were mainly composed of a 2-40 {mu}m thick intermetallic reaction layers. The linear strength of the assemblies can be as high as 250 N/mm and 190 N/mm for the assemblies produced respectively by laser and GTAW processes. The corresponding failures were located in the fusion zone of aluminium (laser assemblies), or in the reaction layer (GTAW assemblies)
Multilayer roll bonded aluminium foil: processing, microstructure and flow stress
Barlow, C.Y.; Nielsen, P.; Hansen, N
Bulk aluminium has been produced by warm-rolling followed by cold-rolling of commercial purity (99% purity) aluminium foil. The bonding appeared perfect from observation with the naked eye, light and transmission electron microscopy. By comparison with bulk aluminium of similar purity (AA1200) rolled to a similar strain (90%RA), the roll-bonded metal showed a much higher density of high-angle grain boundaries, similar strength and improved thermal stability. This study has implications for a number of applications in relation to the processing of aluminium. Roll bonding is of interest as a method for grain size refinement; oxide-containing materials have increased strength, enhanced work-hardening behaviour, and exhibit alterations in recrystallisation behaviour. The behaviour of the hard oxide film is of interest in aluminium processing, and has been investigated by characterising the size and distribution of oxide particles in the roll-bonded samples.
Usage of Neural Network to Predict Aluminium Oxide Layer Thickness
Michal, Peter; Vagaská, Alena; Gombár, Miroslav; Kmec, Ján; Spišák, Emil; Kučerka, Daniel
This paper shows an influence of chemical composition of used electrolyte, such as amount of sulphuric acid in electrolyte, amount of aluminium cations in electrolyte and amount of oxalic acid in electrolyte, and operating parameters of process of anodic oxidation of aluminium such as the temperature of electrolyte, anodizing time, and voltage applied during anodizing process. The paper shows the influence of those parameters on the resulting thickness of aluminium oxide layer. The impact of these variables is shown by using central composite design of experiment for six factors (amount of sulphuric acid, amount of oxalic acid, amount of aluminium cations, electrolyte temperature, anodizing time, and applied voltage) and by usage of the cubic neural unit with Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm during the results evaluation. The paper also deals with current densities of 1 A·dm−2 and 3 A·dm−2 for creating aluminium oxide layer. PMID:25922850
Usage of neural network to predict aluminium oxide layer thickness.
Michal, Peter; Vagaská, Alena; Gombár, Miroslav; Kmec, Ján; Spišák, Emil; Kučerka, Daniel
This paper shows an influence of chemical composition of used electrolyte, such as amount of sulphuric acid in electrolyte, amount of aluminium cations in electrolyte and amount of oxalic acid in electrolyte, and operating parameters of process of anodic oxidation of aluminium such as the temperature of electrolyte, anodizing time, and voltage applied during anodizing process. The paper shows the influence of those parameters on the resulting thickness of aluminium oxide layer. The impact of these variables is shown by using central composite design of experiment for six factors (amount of sulphuric acid, amount of oxalic acid, amount of aluminium cations, electrolyte temperature, anodizing time, and applied voltage) and by usage of the cubic neural unit with Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm during the results evaluation. The paper also deals with current densities of 1 A · dm(-2) and 3 A · dm(-2) for creating aluminium oxide layer. PMID:25922850
Albumin adsorption on to aluminium oxide and polyurethane surfaces.
Sharma, C P; Sunny, M C
The changes in protein adsorption onto aluminium surfaces coated with different thicknesses of oxide layers were examined. The oxide layers on aluminium substrates were derived by the anodizing technique. Protein adsorption studies were conducted using 125I-labelled albumin and the amount of albumin adsorbed was estimated with the help of a gamma counter. An increase in albumin adsorption was observed on oxide layer coated aluminium surfaces. The effect of anti-Hageman factor on albumin and fibrinogen adsorption on to bare aluminium, oxide layer coated aluminium and bare polyether urethane urea surfaces was also investigated. It was observed that the presence of anti-Hageman factor increased the adsorption of albumin and fibrinogen on to all these substrates. PMID:2383620
Single Point Incremental Forming of an Aged AL-Cu-Mg Alloy: Influence of Pre-heat Treatment and Warm Forming
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Mohammadi, Amirahmad; Qin, Ling; Vanhove, Hans; Seefeldt, Marc; Van Bael, Albert; Duflou, Joost R.
This research is aimed at enhancing the poor room temperature formability of heat-treatable aluminum alloy AA2024-T3, without deterioration of its post-forming properties. For this purpose, the influences of different heat-treatment conditions as well as warm forming on the single point incremental forming formability and post-forming properties of this material were investigated. Thermal pre-treatments were consisting of annealing (O-temper), solution treating and quenching (W-temper), and solution heat treating, quenching, and then cold working (T-temper). The formability results as well as forming forces of pre-heat-treated sheets were compared to those of the warm forming process results carried out using a laser-assisted single point incremental forming (LASPIF) setup. The post-forming properties of SPIF-formed parts were analyzed by hardness testing. The maximum forming angles of the blank formed under O-temper and W-temper conditions showed, respectively, 41 and 32% increases compared to the one under T-temper condition. LASPIF forming of this material at a temperature of about 360 °C resulted in 41% improvement in the maximum forming angle with respect to parts formed at room temperature from the T-temper sheet. The hardness of the material reduced significantly after annealing, while SPIF parts formed from W-temper blanks and under LASPIF condition regained their hardness after natural aging. The fracture surface characteristics of the failed parts showed that voids nucleate at the interface between intermetallic particles and matrix, and a dimple rupture fracture mode was identified under all heat-treatment conditions. Under O-temper condition, due to precipitation of particles along the grain boundary, an intergranular dimple rupture was observed. Finally, Energy dispersive x-ray (EDX) and electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD) were used to investigate the possible effects of the heat treatment and the deformation on the changes in the composition of
Single Point Incremental Forming of an Aged AL-Cu-Mg Alloy: Influence of Pre-heat Treatment and Warm Forming
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Mohammadi, Amirahmad; Qin, Ling; Vanhove, Hans; Seefeldt, Marc; Van Bael, Albert; Duflou, Joost R.
This research is aimed at enhancing the poor room temperature formability of heat-treatable aluminum alloy AA2024-T3, without deterioration of its post-forming properties. For this purpose, the influences of different heat-treatment conditions as well as warm forming on the single point incremental forming formability and post-forming properties of this material were investigated. Thermal pre-treatments were consisting of annealing (O-temper), solution treating and quenching (W-temper), and solution heat treating, quenching, and then cold working (T-temper). The formability results as well as forming forces of pre-heat-treated sheets were compared to those of the warm forming process results carried out using a laser-assisted single point incremental forming (LASPIF) setup. The post-forming properties of SPIF-formed parts were analyzed by hardness testing. The maximum forming angles of the blank formed under O-temper and W-temper conditions showed, respectively, 41 and 32% increases compared to the one under T-temper condition. LASPIF forming of this material at a temperature of about 360 °C resulted in 41% improvement in the maximum forming angle with respect to parts formed at room temperature from the T-temper sheet. The hardness of the material reduced significantly after annealing, while SPIF parts formed from W-temper blanks and under LASPIF condition regained their hardness after natural aging. The fracture surface characteristics of the failed parts showed that voids nucleate at the interface between intermetallic particles and matrix, and a dimple rupture fracture mode was identified under all heat-treatment conditions. Under O-temper condition, due to precipitation of particles along the grain boundary, an intergranular dimple rupture was observed. Finally, Energy dispersive x-ray (EDX) and electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD) were used to investigate the possible effects of the heat treatment and the deformation on the changes in the composition of
Weldability aspects in the design and fabrication of aluminium structures subjected to fatigue loads. Part 1: Effect of welding on the structural integrity of joint types designed for repairing aluminium ship sections
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Nevasmaa, P.; Peltonen, J.; Kuitunen, R.; Rahka, K.
The Laboratory of Production Engineering and the Metals Laboratory of the Technical Research Center of Finland (VTT) have participated in a Nordic research project entitled 'New methods for joining of aluminium'. The results from Finnish work of the project will be presented in a report to be published in two parts. Part 1 of the report will evaluate the effects of welding on the structural integrity of some joint types primarily designed for repairing ship sections and sea crafts made from 6xxx (AlSiMg) series alloys.
Hearing conservation in the primary aluminium industry
Frisch, N.; Dixon-Ernst, C.; Chesson, B. J.; Cullen, M. R.
Background Noise-induced hearing loss has been an intractable problem for heavy industry. Aims To report our experience in reducing the incidence of age-corrected confirmed 10 dB hearing shifts (averaged over 2, 3 and 4kHz) in employees in the primary aluminium industry in Australia over the period 2006–13. Methods We analysed annual audiometric data to determine the number of permanent hearing shifts that occurred in employees in two bauxite mines, three alumina refineries and two aluminium smelters. Annual hearing shift rates were calculated based on the number of employees tested per year. Hearing conservation initiatives undertaken during the study period are described. An assessment of similar exposure group noise exposures was also undertaken to determine the magnitude of noise exposure reduction during the study period. Results Across all operations, hearing shift rates declined from 5.5% per year in 2006 to 1.3% per year in 2013 (P < 0.001). The decline in shift rates was greater in mines and refineries, where baseline shift rates were higher, than in smelter workers. Modest reductions in noise exposure occurred during the study period. Conclusions We observed a substantial decline in hearing shift rates during the study period. We describe the hearing conservation initiatives that were collectively associated with this decline. We suspect these initiatives could be deployed relatively easily and at modest cost in other industries with noise-exposed employees. PMID:26470945
Accidents in the aluminium smelting industry.
Das, B C; Chaudhury, S
Analysis of the accident records of an aluminium smelting industry, covering about 2,100 employees, over a period of three years, showed a total of 465 accidents of male employees. Out of these, 5 were fatal, 40.86% were from contacts with extreme temperatures, causing burn injury to 42.58%. Hot materials were the agents causing 44.52% of the burn injuries. Molten aluminium constituted 43.96% amongst hot materials. Injury to lower limbs constituted 38.71% and that to upper limbs 36.99%. The accidents occurring to the employees, in the age group of 26-33 years, amounted to 61.72% of the total accidents. The average number of man-days lost per year was 11,153. Average frequency rate of accidents was 30.75 accidents per million man-hours worked. Severity rate of accidents was 2.196 per million man-hours worked. Incident rate per thousand employees was 73.81. Average number of days lost per accidents was 71.95 days and average duration of man-hours between accidents was 32,516. Mean age of the employees, who met with the accidents were 29.53 years. Share of accidents in the second half of each shift was always more than that in the first half, and this average was 66.66%. PMID:8557540
Lead-calcium alloy development: quality improvement
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Caillerie, J.-L.; Albert, L.
In the 1980s, most of the European lead producers and battery manufacturers had an interest in the lead-calcium alloys developed in the North American market. Fifteen years later, the alloy is used in most of the automotive and industrial batteries produced in Europe. During this development period, the composition of lead-calcium alloy has been improved. Physical metallurgy and electrochemistry research carried out by the lead industry has established the composition of the lead-calcium for negative grids. Metaleurop, as a lead producer, initiated in 1975 the production of lead-calcium alloys for sealed lead/acid batteries and was quickly convinced of the necessity to improve the performance of the alloy by further fundamental research (in 1980) and supporting customers' efforts. The parameters involved in the production battery plates are well specified. The composition of the alloy is dependent on the equipment used to cast the alloy. Improving the hardness by increasing the calcium content over 0.10 wt.% may not be the solution when melting and cooling conditions should als be adapted. The addition of aluminium to prevent calcium oxidation is efficient, its level being linked to the remelting and casting conditions.
Corrosion and passivation behavior of Mg-Zn-Y-Al alloys prepared by cooling rate-controlled solidification
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Yamasaki, Michiaki; Izumi, Shogo; Kawamura, Yoshihito; Habazaki, Hiroki
Highly corrosion-resistant nanocrystalline Mg-Zn-Y-Al multi-phase alloys have been prepared by consolidation of rapidly solidified (RS) ribbons. The relation between corrosion behavior and microstructure evolution of Mg-Zn-Y-Al alloys with a long period stacking ordered phase has been investigated. In order to clarify the influence of rapid solidification on the occurrence of localized corrosion such as filiform corrosion, several Mg 96.75Zn 0.75Y 2Al 0.5 (at.%) alloys with different cooling rates are fabricated by the gravity casting, copper mould injection casting and melt-spinning techniques and their corrosion behavior and microstructures are examined by the salt water immersion test, electrochemical measurements, GDOES, XRD, SEM and TEM. To clarify the effect of aluminium addition on the improvement in corrosion resistance of the alloys, several Mg 97.25- xZn 0.75Y 2Al x alloys with different aluminium contents are fabricated by consolidating RS ribbons and the formation of corroded films on the Mg-Zn-Y-Al alloys have been investigated. Rapid solidification brings about the grain refinement and an increase in the solid solubility of zinc, yttrium and aluminium into the magnesium matrix, enhancing microstructural and electrochemical homogeneity, which in turn enhanced corrosion resistance. The addition of aluminium to magnesium can modify the structure and chemical composition of surface films and improves the resistance to local breakdown of the films.
Amélioration des performances du procédé de soudage TIG sur un acier au carbone et un alliage d'aluminium par dépôt de silice
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Sire, Stéphane; Marya, Surendar
This Note presents ways to improve the weld penetration potential of TIG process by optimising silica application around the joints in a plain carbon steel and an aluminium alloy 5086. Whereas for plain carbon steels, full coverage of joint improves penetration, the presence of a blank zone around the joint in the flux coating on aluminium 5086 using AC-TIG seems to be the best solution for cosmetic and deep welds. To cite this article: S. Sire, S. Marya, C. R. Mecanique 330 (2002) 83-89.
Production and Compressive Characterization of Aluminium MMC Foam Manufactured Using Dual Foaming Agent
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Haidar, S.; Ansary, S.; Rahman, A.
Aluminium foams, produced by melting Aluminium alloy (LM6) containing blowing agent(s) and vigorous stirring. TiH2 is a known agent for this. As TiH2 begins to decompose into Ti and gaseous H2 when heated above about 465°C, large volumes of hydrogen gas are rapidly produced, creating bubbles that leads to a closed cell foam. A novel Strategy to enhance the mechanical properties of Al-MMC foams is discussed here, and it is demonstrated that titanium hydride (TiH2) in the form of 10-15 μm diameter particles can be pre-treated by selective oxidation to produce more uniform foams having better compressive properties (yield strength and energy absorption). It is found that the mechanical properties of the foams and the uniformity of cell size distribution is improved when the foam is blown with an optimized mixture of CaCO3 and pretreated TiH2. In order to define the relationship of mechanical properties with relative density of this material, correlations which uniquely defines the compressive behaviour of this modified Al- MMC foam has been developed.
Investigation and in situ removal of spatter generated during laser ablation of aluminium composites
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Popescu, A. C.; Delval, C.; Shadman, S.; Leparoux, M.
Spatter generated during laser irradiation of an aluminium alloy nanocomposite (AlMg5 reinforced with Al2O3 nanoparticles) was monitored by high speed imaging. Droplets trajectory and speed were assessed by computerized image analysis. The effects of laser peak power and laser focusing on the plume expansion and expulsed droplet speeds were studied in air or under argon flow. It was found that the velocity of visible droplets expulsed laterally or at the end of the plume emission from the metal surface was not dependent on the plasma plume speed. The neighbouring area of irradiation sites was studied by optical and scanning electron microscopy. Droplets deposited on the surface were classified according to their size and counted using a digital image processing software. It was observed that the number of droplets on surface was 1.5-3 times higher when the laser beam was focused in depth as compared to focused beams, even though the populations average diameter were comparable. Three methods were selected for removing droplets in situ, during plume expansion: an argon gas jet crossing the plasma plume, a fused silica plate collector transparent to the laser wavelength placed parallel to the irradiated surface and a mask placed onto the aluminium composite surface. The argon gas jet was efficient only for low power irradiation conditions, the fused silica plate failed in all tested conditions and the mask was successful for all irradiation regimes.
Incremental ECAP as a novel tool for producing ultrafine grained aluminium plates
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Olejnik, L.; Chrominski, W.; Rosochowski, A.; Lipinska, M.; Lewandowska, M.
Conventional equal channel angular pressing is an efficient technique to obtain bulk ultrafine grained materials (UFG) with extraordinary mechanical properties in the form of rods. In this work, an incremental method of ECAP process which allows to obtain thick sheets with UFG structure is presented. Using this method square plates (62 × 62 mm) were obtained. In this case, a combined route - A+ specific B - with 90 degree rotation along plate normal after each pass keeping other planes in the same positions relatively to the channel - has been applied. The efficiency of this methods was proved for technically pure 1050 aluminium. It was processed by incremental ECAP using 8 passes of A+B route. To characterize microstructure visible light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy were used. Mechanical properties were measured by microhardness test. The results obtained showed that the microstructure and mechanical properties of 1050 aluminium alloy processed by incremental ECAP are comparable to conventional ECAP. However, the new processing method broaden the potential applications of UFG materials.
A new lead alloy for automotive batteries operating under high-temperature conditions
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Albert, L.; Goguelin, A.; Jullian, E.
The operating conditions of automotive and some industrial batteries are involving increasingly higher temperatures and heavier duty cycles. These place stress on the positive-grid materials which are presently not sufficiently resistant to corrosion and to creep. Conventional lead-calcium-tin-aluminium alloys can usually be optimized by a proper choice of calcium and tin contents for each specific manufacturing technology. With the new requirements of customers and the typical behaviour of these conventional alloys, however, there is no more room for improvement without searching for additional alloying elements. The work reported here shows how the doping of conventional lead-calcium-tin-aluminium alloys with barium improves mechanical properties (tensile strength and creep resistance) and increases corrosion resistance at temperatures between 50 and 75°C. Grid materials prepared by two manufacturing technologies (gravity cast; continuous cast followed by expansion) are investigated. Both the mechanical properties and the corrosion behaviour of the resulting grids are evaluated.
[Effect of casting techniques on castability of copper-aluminum alloys].
Scaranelo, R M; Bombonatti, P E; de Barros, L E; Pellizzer, A J
It was evaluated the castability of four copper-aluminium alloy according the melting casting method used. The specimens were made using polyester mesh screen, with 11 x 11 filaments of 0.26 mm thick, fixed along of two adjacent edges in wax bar, with the sprue attached at their junction. The alloys were in an electrical casting machine and a centrifugal casting machine with an air/gas torch. The castability values were obtained by the percentage of completed segments of the resulting cast alloy screen. It was verified that the use of the electrical casting machine produced higher castability values to the copper-aluminium alloys than those produced by a centrifugal casting machine with an air/gas torch. PMID:2099550
The varied functions of aluminium-activated malate transporters-much more than aluminium resistance.
Palmer, Antony J; Baker, Alison; Muench, Stephen P
The ALMT (aluminium-activated malate transporter) family comprises a functionally diverse but structurally similar group of ion channels. They are found ubiquitously in plant species, expressed throughout different tissues, and located in either the plasma membrane or tonoplast. The first family member identified was TaALMT1, discovered in wheat root tips, which was found to be involved in aluminium resistance by means of malate exudation into the soil. However, since this discovery other family members have been shown to have many other functions such as roles in stomatal opening, general anionic homoeostasis, and in economically valuable traits such as fruit flavour. Recent evidence has also shown that ALMT proteins can act as key molecular actors in GABA (γ-aminobutyric acid) signalling, the first evidence that GABA can act as a signal transducer in plants. PMID:27284052
Ratcheting fatigue behaviour of Al-7075 T6 alloy: Influence of stress parameters
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Amarnath, Lala; Bhattacharjee, Antara; Dutta, K.
The use of aluminium and aluminium based alloys are increasing rapidly on account of its high formability, good thermal and electrical conductivity, high strength and lightness. Aluminium alloys are extensively used in aerospace, automobile, marine and space research industries and are also put into structural applications where chances of fatigue damage cannot be ruled out. In the current work, it is intended to study the ratcheting fatigue behavior of 7075-T6 aluminium alloy at room temperature. This Al alloy is potentially used in aviation, marine and automotive components as well as in bicycle parts, rock mounting equipment and parts of ammunition where there is every chance of failure of the parts due to deformation caused by ratcheting. Ratcheting is the process of accruement of plastic stain produced when a component is subjected to asymmetric cyclic loading under the influence of low cycle fatigue. To accomplish the requirements of the projected research, stress-controlled cyclic loading experiments were done using a ±250 kN servo-hydraulic universal testing machine (Instron: 8800R). The effect of stress parameters such as mean stress and stress amplitude were investigated on the ratcheting behavior of the selected aluminium alloy. It was observed that, ratcheting strain increased with increase in the value of stress amplitude at any constant mean stress while a saturation in strain accumulation attained in the investigated material after around 10-20 cycles, under all test conditions. The analyses of hysteresis loop generated during cyclic loading indicate that the material exhibits cyclic hardening in the initial fifty cycles which gets softened in further loading up to about 70-80 cycles and finally attains a steady state. The increase in the ratcheting strain value with stress parameters happens owing to increased deformation domain during cycling. The cyclic hardening accompanied by softening is correlated with characteristic precipitation features of
A quest for super dense aluminium
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Fiquet, G.; Narayana, C.; Bellin, C.; Shukla, A.; Esteve, I.; Mezouar, N.
The extreme pressure phase diagram of materials is important not only for understanding the interiors of planets or stars, but also for the fundamental understanding of the relation between crystal structure and electronic structure. Structural transitions induced by extreme pressure are governed by the deformation of valence electron charge density which bears the brunt of increasing compression while the relative volume occupied by the nearly incompressible ionic core electrons increases. At extreme pressures common materials are expected to transform into new dense phases with extremely compact atomic arrangements that may also have unusual physical properties. In this report, we present new experiments carried out on aluminium. A simple system like Al is not only important as a benchmark for theory, but can also be used as a standard for pressures in the TPa range and beyond which are targeted at new dynamic compression facilities such as the National Ignition Facility (NIF) at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in the US or Laser Mégajoule (LMJ) in Bordeaux in France. For aluminium, first principle calculations have consistently predicted a phase transition sequence from fcc to hcp and hcp to bcc in a pressure range below 0.5 TPa [Tambe et al., Phys. Rev. B 77, 172102, 2008]. The hcp phase was identified at 217 GPa in a recent experiment [Akahama et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 96, 45505, 2006] but the detection of the predicted bcc phase has been hampered by the difficulty of routine static high pressure experiments beyond 350 GPa. Here, we report on the overcoming of this obstacle and the detection of all the structural phase transitions predicted in Al by achieving a pressure in excess of 500 GPa in the static regime in a diamond-anvil cell. In particular, using X-ray diffraction at the high-pressure beamline ID27 at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF), we find a bcc super-dense phase of aluminium at a pressure of 380 GPa. In this report
Aluminium and iron air pollution near an iron casting and aluminium foundry in Turin district (Italy).
Polizzi, Salvatore; Ferrara, Mauro; Bugiani, Massimiliano; Barbero, Domenico; Baccolo, Tiziana
This work reports the results of an environmental survey carried out in an industrial area in the Province of Turin: its main aim is to assess the levels of iron and aluminium in the outside air during the period from July to September to assess the influence of industrial activity (a cast-iron and aluminium foundry) which is interrupted during the month of August, on the level of metals present in the air. Conducting the analysis during this period of time made it possible to avoid the confounding effect of pollution due to domestic central heating. The measurements were taken from nine areas at different distances from the foundry in the area and according to the direction of the prevailing winds, as deduced from the historical data. The results of this survey show a statistically significant difference in iron and aluminium levels in the outside air in the geographic areas between the two main periods examined: during August (no foundry activity) v/s July-September (foundry activity). The values recorded are: Aluminium 0.4+/-0.45 microg/m(3) v/s 1.12+/-1.29 microg/m(3) (p<0.0001); Iron 0.95+/-0.56 microg/m(3) v/s 1.6+/-1.0 microg/m(3) (p<0.0001). There were no statistically significant differences between the nine sampling points from the point of view of the sampling sites, climate conditions and wind directions. We found no correlation with car traffic, in terms of the number of vehicles, and metals. The values of iron tended to be higher in the areas farther away from the foundry site in the areas located along the path of the prevailing winds. PMID:17637476
Experimental determination of strain partitioning among individual grains in the bulk of an aluminium multicrystal
Haldrup, K.
A recently developed marker-based technique for mapping of the displacement gradient tensor and the strain throughout the bulk of optically opaque specimens is presented and applied to an aluminium alloy multicrystal. Through investigations at 4%, 10% and 14% axial strains, the internal strain field is observed to be non-homogenous with the observed patterns present throughout the range of strains investigated. The morphology of the strain field is visualized with a resolution better than 50{mu}m and variations are tentatively associated with the grain structure as recorded by EBSD. Future applications of the technique in combination with other 3-dimensional approaches are discussed with respect to comparison with Finite Element modelling approaches.
Aluminium leaching from red mud by filamentous fungi.
Urík, Martin; Bujdoš, Marek; Milová-Žiaková, Barbora; Mikušová, Petra; Slovák, Marek; Matúš, Peter
This contribution investigates the efficient and environmentally friendly aluminium leaching from red mud (bauxite residue) by 17 species of filamentous fungi. Bioleaching experiments were examined in batch cultures with the red mud in static, 7-day cultivation. The most efficient fungal strains in aluminium bioleaching were Penicillium crustosum G-140 and Aspergillus niger G-10. The A. niger G-10 strain was capable to extract up to approximately 141 mg·L(-1) of aluminium from 0.2 g dry weight red mud. Chemical leaching with organic acids mixture, prepared according to A. niger G-10 strain's respective fungal excretion during cultivation, proved that organic acids significantly contribute to aluminium solubilization from red mud. PMID:26365318
The Tungsten Inert GAS (TIG) Process of Welding Aluminium in Microgravity: Technical and Economic Considerations
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Ferretti, S.; Amadori, K.; Boccalatte, A.; Alessandrini, M.; Freddi, A.; Persiani, F.; Poli, G.
The UNIBO team composed of students and professors of the University of Bologna along with technicians and engineers from Alenia Space Division and Siad Italargon Division, took part in the 3rd Student Parabolic Flight Campaign of the European Space Agency in 2000. It won the student competition and went on to take part in the Professional Parabolic Flight Campaign of May 2001. The experiment focused on "dendritic growth in aluminium alloy weldings", and investigated topics related to the welding process of aluminium in microgravity. The purpose of the research is to optimise the process and to define the areas of interest that could be improved by new conceptual designs. The team performed accurate tests in microgravity to determine which phenomena have the greatest impact on the quality of the weldings with respect to penetration, surface roughness and the microstructures that are formed during the solidification. Various parameters were considered in the economic-technical optimisation, such as the type of electrode and its tip angle. Ground and space tests have determined the optimum chemical composition of the electrodes to offer longest life while maintaining the shape of the point. Additionally, the power consumption has been optimised; this offers opportunities for promoting the product to the customer as well as being environmentally friendly. Tests performed on the Al-Li alloys showed a significant influence of some physical phenomena such as the Marangoni effect and thermal diffusion; predictions have been made on the basis of observations of the thermal flux seen in the stereophotos. Space transportation today is a key element in the construction of space stations and future planetary bases, because the volumes available for launch to space are directly related to the payload capacity of rockets or the Space Shuttle. The research performed gives engineers the opportunity to consider completely new concepts for designing structures for space applications
The influence of WC-Co HVOF thermal spraying on the microstructure of an Al-4 Cu alloy substrate
Guilemany, J.M.; Nutting, J.; Dong, Z.; Paco, J.M. de
The High Velocity Oxy-Fuel (HVOF) thermal spraying process can be used to produce a dense hard coating onto a metallic surface with a good bond between the coating and the substrate. Having developed techniques for the examination of the coating substrate interfacial regions with steel it was thought appropriate to examine the interfacial structure with other substrates. An aluminium copper alloy was chosen for this study for the following reasons: (1) There had been little earlier work on substrate reactions when using aluminium alloys, the published data was chiefly concerned with characterizing the coatings. (2) Aluminium alloys have a much lower melting point than steel, hence the substrate melted zone was likely to be much greater than that found in steel. (3) The structural characteristics of aged aluminium copper alloys have been well described and hence the structural changes produced in the alloy by thermal spraying could be compared with clearly established structural data so giving markers for the temperature profile well below the immediate interface region. As in the previous investigation the transmission electron microscope was used to examine thin foils prepared from the interface region and at various depths below the interface into the substrate.
Aluminium content of some foods and food products in the USA, with aluminium food additives.
Saiyed, Salim M; Yokel, Robert A
The primary objective was to determine the aluminium (Al) content of selected foods and food products in the USA which contain Al as an approved food additive. Intake of Al from the labeled serving size of each food product was calculated. The samples were acid or base digested and analysed for Al using electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry. Quality control (QC) samples, with matrices matching the samples, were generated and used to verify the Al determinations. Food product Al content ranged from <1-27,000 mg kg(-1). Cheese in a serving of frozen pizzas had up to 14 mg of Al, from basic sodium aluminium phosphate; whereas the same amount of cheese in a ready-to-eat restaurant pizza provided 0.03-0.09 mg. Many single serving packets of non-dairy creamer had approximately 50-600 mg Al kg(-1) as sodium aluminosilicate, providing up to 1.5 mg Al per serving. Many single serving packets of salt also had sodium aluminosilicate as an additive, but the Al content was less than in single-serving non-dairy creamer packets. Acidic sodium aluminium phosphate was present in many food products, pancakes and waffles. Baking powder, some pancake/waffle mixes and frozen products, and ready-to-eat pancakes provided the most Al of the foods tested; up to 180 mg/serving. Many products provide a significant amount of Al compared to the typical intake of 3-12 mg/day reported from dietary Al studies conducted in many countries. PMID:16019791
Corrosion resistance of AA6063-Type Al-Mg-Si alloy by silicon carbide in sodium chloride solution for marine application
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Fayomi, Ojo Sunday Isaac; Abdulwahab, Malik; Popoola, Abimbola Patricia Idowu; Asuke, Ferdinand
The present work focused on corrosion inhibition of AA6063 type (Al-Mg-Si) alloy in sodium chloride (NaCl) solution with a silicon carbide inhibitor, using the potentiodynamic electrochemical method. The aluminium alloy surface morphology was examined, in the as-received and as-corroded in the un-inhibited state, with scanning electron microscopy equipped with energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS). The results obtained via linear polarization indicated a high corrosion potential for the unprotected as-received alloy. Equally, inhibition efficiency as high as 98.82% at 10.0 g/v silicon carbide addition was obtained with increased polarization resistance ( R p), while the current density reduced significantly for inhibited samples compared to the un-inhibited aluminium alloy. The adsorption mechanism of the inhibitor aluminium alloy follows the Langmuir adsorption isotherm. This shows that the corrosion rate of aluminium alloy with silicon carbide in NaCl environment decreased significantly with addition of the inhibitor.
Elevated urinary excretion of aluminium and iron in multiple sclerosis.
Exley, Christopher; Mamutse, Godwin; Korchazhkina, Olga; Pye, Eleanor; Strekopytov, Stanislav; Polwart, Anthony; Hawkins, Clive
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, immune-mediated, demyelinating disease of the central nervous system of as yet unknown aetiology. A consensus of opinion has suggested that the disorder is the result of an interplay between environmental factors and susceptibility genes. We have used a battery of analytical techniques to determine if the urinary excretion of i) markers of oxidative damage; ii) iron and iii) the environmental toxin aluminium and its antagonist, silicon, are altered in relapsing-remitting (RRMS) and secondary progressive MS (SPMS). Urinary concentrations of oxidative biomarkers, MDA and TBARS, were not found to be useful indicators of inflammatory disease in MS. However, urinary concentrations of another potential marker for inflammation and oxidative stress, iron, were significantly increased in SPMS (P<0.01) and insignificantly increased in RRMS (P>0.05). Urinary concentrations of aluminium were also significantly increased in RRMS (P<0.001) and SPMS (P <0.05) such that the levels of aluminium excretion in the former were similar to those observed in individuals undergoing metal chelation therapy. The excretion of silicon was lower in MS and significantly so in SPMS (P<0.05). Increased excretion of iron in urine supported a role for iron dysmetabolism in MS. Levels of urinary aluminium excretion similar to those seen in aluminium intoxication suggested that aluminium may be a hitherto unrecognized environmental factor associated with the aetiology of MS. If aluminium is involved in MS then an increased dietary intake of its natural antagonist, silicon, might be a therapeutic option. PMID:17086897
Orthorhombic aluminium oxyfluoride, AlOF.
Vasiliev, Alexander D; Melnikova, Svetlana V; Isaenko, Lyudmila I
Crystals of the title compound were extracted from the bulk of grown SrAlF(5) crystals as unexpected inclusions that were identified as the long sought after aluminium oxyfluoride. The structure of AlOF is built up from tetrahedral and octahedral polyhedra. Each tetrahedron is bisected by a mirror plane, with the Al atom and two vertex anions in the plane. All tetrahedral vertices are positions of competing oxide and fluoride ions and are shared with octahedra. These shared vertices belong to two octahedral edges which join the octahedra to form infinite zigzag chains. The chains are strung along twofold screw axes that run parallel to the unit-cell b axis. The remaining two octahedral vertices are occupied only by fluoride ions. A small deficiency in the occupation of the octahedral Al position was suggested by the refinement. However, the stoichiometry of the compound is AlOF within experimental uncertainty. The Al-F(O) distances are separated into three groups with average values of 1.652 (3) (tetrahedra), 1.800 (2) (octahedra) and 1.894 (2) A (octahedra). This structure differs widely from the reported tetragonal phase Al(1-x)O(1-3x)F(1+3x) (x = 0.0886) [Kutoglu (1992). Z. Kristallogr. 199, 197-201], which consists solely of octahedral structural units. PMID:19346595
Adsorption of aluminium by stream particulates.
Tipping, E; Ohnstad, M; Woof, C
An experimental study was made of the adsorption of aluminium by fine particulates from Whitray Beck, a hill stream in NW England. Adsorption increased with Al(3) activity, pH and concentration of particles, and could be quantitatively described by the empirical equation: [Formula: see text] [particles] where square brackets indicate concentrations, curly brackets, activities, and alpha, beta and gamma are constants with values of 5.14x10(-10) (mol litre(-1))(2.015) (g particles litre(-1))(-1), 0.457, and 1.472, respectively. For the experimental data, the equation gave a correlation ratio of 0.99. The equation accounts reasonably well for the adsorption of Al by particulates from seven other streams. In applying the equation, it must be borne in mind that the desorption kinetics of Al depend on pH, and rapid reversibility (<15min) can only be assumed for pH
A systematic review of aluminium phosphide poisoning.
Mehrpour, Omid; Jafarzadeh, Mostafa; Abdollahi, Mohammad
Every year, about 300,000 people die because of pesticide poisoning worldwide. The most common pesticide agents are organophosphates and phosphides, aluminium phosphide (AlP) in particular. AlP is known as a suicide poison that can easily be bought and has no effective antidote. Its toxicity results from the release of phosphine gas as the tablet gets into contact with moisture. Phosphine gas primarily affects the heart, lungs, gastrointestinal tract, and kidneys. Poisoning signs and symptoms include nausea, vomiting, restlessness, abdominal pain, palpitation, refractory shock, cardiac arrhythmias, pulmonary oedema, dyspnoea, cyanosis, and sensory alterations. Diagnosis is based on clinical suspicion, positive silver nitrate paper test to phosphine, and gastric aspirate and viscera biochemistry. Treatment includes early gastric lavage with potassium permanganate or a combination with coconut oil and sodium bicarbonate, administration of charcoal, and palliative care. Specific therapy includes intravenous magnesium sulphate and oral coconut oil. Moreover, acidosis can be treated with early intravenous administration of sodium bicarbonate, cardiogenic shock with fluid, vasopresor, and refractory cardiogenic shock with intra-aortic baloon pump or digoxin. Trimetazidine may also have a useful role in the treatment, because it can stop ventricular ectopic beats and bigeminy and preserve oxidative metabolism. This article reviews the epidemiological, toxicological, and clinical/pathological aspects of AlP poisoning and its management. PMID:22450207
Fuzzy Multicriteria Ranking of Aluminium Coating Methods
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Batzias, A. F.
This work deals with multicriteria ranking of aluminium coating methods. The alternatives used are: sulfuric acid anodization, A1; oxalic acid anodization, A2; chromic acid anodization, A3; phosphoric acid anodization, A4; integral color anodizing, A5; chemical conversion coating, A6; electrostatic powder deposition, A7. The criteria used are: cost of production, f1; environmental friendliness of production process, f2; appearance (texture), f3; reflectivity, f4; response to coloring, f5; corrosion resistance, f6; abrasion resistance, f7; fatigue resistance, f8. Five experts coming from relevant industrial units set grades to the criteria vector and the preference matrix according to a properly modified Delphi method. Sensitivity analysis of the ranked first alternative A1 against the `second best', which was A3 at low and A7 at high resolution levels proved that the solution is robust. The dependence of anodized products quality on upstream processes is presented and the impact of energy price increase on industrial cost is discussed.
High-rate aluminium yolk-shell nanoparticle anode for Li-ion battery with long cycle life and ultrahigh capacity
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Li, Sa; Niu, Junjie; Zhao, Yu Cheng; So, Kang Pyo; Wang, Chao; Wang, Chang An; Li, Ju
Alloy-type anodes such as silicon and tin are gaining popularity in rechargeable Li-ion batteries, but their rate/cycling capabilities should be improved. Here by making yolk-shell nanocomposite of aluminium core (30 nm in diameter) and TiO2 shell (~3 nm in thickness), with a tunable interspace, we achieve 10 C charge/discharge rate with reversible capacity exceeding 650 mAh g-1 after 500 cycles, with a 3 mg cm-2 loading. At 1 C, the capacity is approximately 1,200 mAh g-1 after 500 cycles. Our one-pot synthesis route is simple and industrially scalable. This result may reverse the lagging status of aluminium among high-theoretical-capacity anodes.
High-rate aluminium yolk-shell nanoparticle anode for Li-ion battery with long cycle life and ultrahigh capacity
Li, Sa; Niu, Junjie; Zhao, Yu Cheng; So, Kang Pyo; Wang, Chao; Wang, Chang An; Li, Ju
Alloy-type anodes such as silicon and tin are gaining popularity in rechargeable Li-ion batteries, but their rate/cycling capabilities should be improved. Here by making yolk-shell nanocomposite of aluminium core (30 nm in diameter) and TiO2 shell (∼3 nm in thickness), with a tunable interspace, we achieve 10 C charge/discharge rate with reversible capacity exceeding 650 mAh g−1 after 500 cycles, with a 3 mg cm−2 loading. At 1 C, the capacity is approximately 1,200 mAh g−1 after 500 cycles. Our one-pot synthesis route is simple and industrially scalable. This result may reverse the lagging status of aluminium among high-theoretical-capacity anodes. PMID:26243004
High-rate aluminium yolk-shell nanoparticle anode for Li-ion battery with long cycle life and ultrahigh capacity.
Li, Sa; Niu, Junjie; Zhao, Yu Cheng; So, Kang Pyo; Wang, Chao; Wang, Chang An; Li, Ju
Alloy-type anodes such as silicon and tin are gaining popularity in rechargeable Li-ion batteries, but their rate/cycling capabilities should be improved. Here by making yolk-shell nanocomposite of aluminium core (30 nm in diameter) and TiO2 shell (∼3 nm in thickness), with a tunable interspace, we achieve 10 C charge/discharge rate with reversible capacity exceeding 650 mAh g(-1) after 500 cycles, with a 3 mg cm(-2) loading. At 1 C, the capacity is approximately 1,200 mAh g(-1) after 500 cycles. Our one-pot synthesis route is simple and industrially scalable. This result may reverse the lagging status of aluminium among high-theoretical-capacity anodes. PMID:26243004
Development of corrosion resistant aluminum heat exchanger, Part 1: Development of new aluminum alloy sheets for sacrificial anode
Hagiwara, M.; Baba, Y.; Tanabe, Z.; Miura, T.; Hasegawa, Y.; Iijima, K.
The sacrificial anodic effect of Al-Zn alloy reduced markedly in aluminium heat exchanger as car air conditioner manufactured by vacuum brazing conventionally used, as zinc elements preferentially evaporate in vacuum-heating. It was found that Al-Sn alloy had superior electrochemical characteristics than Al-Zn alloy (AA7072) as the sacrificial anodic material used in vacuum brazing. According to many experimental results, the new brazing sheet-fin with Al-Mn-Sn alloy core metal has been developed. This fin has favorable formability and prominent sacrificial anodic effect. Therefore, this fin is excellent material for car air conditioner manufactured by vacuum brazing.
On the electrochemical formation of Pu-Al alloys in molten LiCl-KCl
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Mendes, E.; Malmbeck, R.; Nourry, C.; Souček, P.; Glatz, J.-P.
Properties of Pu-Al alloys were investigated in connection with development of pyrochemical methods for reprocessing of spent nuclear fuel. Electroseparation techniques in molten LiCl-KCl are being developed in ITU to group-selectively recover actinides from the mixture with fission products. In the process, actinides are electrochemically reduced on solid aluminium cathodes, forming solid actinide-aluminium alloys. This article is focused on electro-chemical characterisation of Pu-Al alloys in molten LiCl-KCl, on electrodeposition of Pu on solid Al electrodes and on determination of chemical composition and structure of the formed alloys. Cyclic voltammetry and chronopotentiometry were used to study Pu-Al alloys in the temperature range 400-550 °C. Pu is reduced to metal in one reduction step Pu 3+/Pu 0 on an inert W electrode. On a reactive Al electrode, the reduction of Pu 3+ to Pu 0 occurs at a more positive potential due to formation of Pu-Al alloys. The open circuit potential technique was used to identify the alloys formed. Stable deposits were obtained by potentiostatic electrolyses of LiCl-KCl-PuCl 3 melts on Al plates. XRD and SEM-EDX analyses were used to characterise the alloys, which were composed mainly of PuAl 4 with some PuAl 3. In addition, the preparation of PuCl 3 containing salt by carbochlorination of PuO 2 is described.
Donnelly, R.G.; Gilliland, R.G.; Slaughter, G.M.
A brazing alloy which, in the molten state, is characterized by excellent wettability and flowability, said alloy being capable of forming a corrosion resistant brazed joint wherein at least one component of said joint is graphite and the other component is a corrosion resistant refractory metal, said alloy consisting essentially of 20 to 50 per cent by weight of gold, 20 to 50 per cent by weight of nickel, and 15 to 45 per cent by weight of molybdenum. (AEC)
Smith, K.F.; Van Thyne, R.J.
This patent deals with vanadium based ternary alloys useful as fuel element jackets. According to the invention the ternary vanadium alloys, prepared in an arc furnace, contain from 2.5 to 15% by weight titanium and from 0.5 to 10% by weight niobium. Characteristics of these alloys are good thermal conductivity, low neutron capture cross section, good corrosion resistance, good welding and fabricating properties, low expansion coefficient, and high strength.
A Study of Al-Zn-Sn Alloy Sacrificial Anode Cathodic Protection Requirements for Structure Used In Seawater
Kamarudin, Siti Radiah Mohd; Daud, Muhamad; Sattar, Shariff; Daud, Abd. Razak
The corrosion of aluminium (Al) alloys in seawater was investigated using potentiodynamic technique, complemented by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), EDAX and XRD. SEM was used out to characterize the corroded surface and to observe the extent of corrosion attack on the Al alloys tested in seawater. EDAX analysis was used to identify elements present on the specimen surface. Where else XRD was to identify phase appearance. The results indicate that zinc (Zn), stanum (Sn) and copper (Cu) as alloying elements enhance corrosion behaviour of the aluminium in seawater by shifting the potential to a more negative value. In the presence of those elements, the Al alloys becomes more active, having potential of more than -1.0 V{sub SCE} and showed active corrosion behaviour.
Microstructure Analysis on 6061 Aluminum Alloy after Casting and Diffuses Annealing Process
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Wang, H. Q.; Sun, W. L.; Xing, Y. Q.
One factory using semi-continuous casting process produce the ф200×6000 mm 6061 aluminium alloy barstock, and then rotary forged for car wheels. 6061 distorting aluminium alloy is an forged aluminum alloy, and mainly containing Mg, Si, Cu and other alloying elements. The main strengthening phase is Mg2Si, and also has few phase of (FeMn) 3Si2Al15. In order to eliminate the segregation and separation which present in the crystal boundary, and make the distortion to be uniform, and does not present ear and fracture defects after the forging. So the 6061 distorting aluminium alloy adopt the diffusion annealing heat treatment before the forging process.According to the current conditions, we use the diffusion annealing which have the different heating temperature and different holding time.The best process we can obtain from the test which can improve the production efficiency and reduce the material waste, improve the mechanical properties, and eliminate the overheated film on the surface.Then,we using OM,SEM and EDS to analyse the microstructure and the chemical composition of compound between the surface and centre. The result shows that the amount of segregation were different in the surface and in the center, and the different diffusion annealing can cause the phase change in the surface and the center.
A comparative study of two Al-Mg-Si alloys for automotive applications
Moons, T.; Ratchev, P.; Verlinden, B.; Van Houtte, P.; De Smet, P.
In search for lighter cars, the automotive industry shows a considerable interest in the application of aluminium sheets for car body panels. The formability and strength of aluminium alloys is inferior compared with steel. This necessitates to acquire a better understanding of the link between processing, microstructure and mechanical properties of these alloys. The present work is a comparative study of two Al-Mg-Si alloys which differ in the level of Si. The influence of ageing, deformation and a second solution treatment on the mechanical properties has been studied. The associated microstructures, evaluated by means of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray microanalysis (EDS), have been used to explain the observed properties.
Development of nanostructured CoFe-based alloys for high temperature magnetic applications.
Panda, A K; Mohanta, O; Ghosh, M; Mitra, A
The effect of substituting Fe by Co on the crystallization, structural and magnetic behaviour of Fe(72-x)Co(x)Si4B20Nb4 (X = 10, 20, 36, 50 at%) and Co36Fe36Si(4-Y)Al(y)B20Nb4 (Y = 0, 1 at%) alloys prepared in the form of melt spun ribbons has been discussed. Alloys containing optimum content of cobalt = 36 at% showed consistent coercivity at elevated temperatures. This soft magnetic property was further improved with aluminium incorporation. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) indicated that such enhancement in the properties was due to finer dispersions of (CoFe)SiAl nanoparticles in amorphous matrix. Nanocrystallisation also raised the Curie temperature of the aluminium contained alloy. PMID:19928272
Improving Efficiency of Aluminium Sacrificial Anode Using Cold Work Process
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Asmara, Y. P.; Siregar, J. P.; Tezara, C.; Ann, Chang Tai
Aluminium is one of the preferred materials to be used as sacrificial anode for carbon steel protection. The efficiency of these can be low due to the formation of oxide layer which passivate the anodes. Currently, to improve its efficiency, there are efforts using a new technique called surface modifications. The objective of this research is to study corrosion mechanism of aluminium sacrificial anode which has been processed by cold work. The cold works are applied by reducing the thickness of aluminium sacrificial anodes at 20% and 40% of thickness reduction. The cathodic protection experiments were performed by immersion of aluminium connected to carbon steel cylinder in 3% NaCl solutions. Visual inspections using SEM had been conducted during the experiments and corrosion rate data were taken in every week for 8 weeks of immersion time. Corrosion rate data were measured using weight loss and linear polarization technique (LPR). From the results, it is observed that cold worked aluminium sacrificial anode have a better corrosion performance. It shows higher corrosion rate and lower corrosion potential. The anodes also provided a long functional for sacrificial anode before it stop working. From SEM investigation, it is shown that cold works have changed the microstructure of anodes which is suspected in increasing corrosion rate and cause de-passivate of the surface anodes.
Corrosion of aluminium metal in OPC- and CAC-based cement matrices
Kinoshita, Hajime; Swift, Paul; Utton, Claire; Carro-Mateo, Beatriz; Collier, Nick; Milestone, Neil
Corrosion of aluminium metal in ordinary Portland cement (OPC) based pastes produces hydrogen gas and expansive reaction products causing problems for the encapsulation of aluminium containing nuclear wastes. Although corrosion of aluminium in cements has been long known, the extent of aluminium corrosion in the cement matrices and effects of such reaction on the cement phases are not well established. The present study investigates the corrosion reaction of aluminium in OPC, OPC-blast furnace slag (BFS) and calcium aluminate cement (CAC) based systems. The total amount of aluminium able to corrode in an OPC and 4:1 BFS:OPC system was determined, and the correlation between the amount of calcium hydroxide in the system and the reaction of aluminium obtained. It was also shown that a CAC-based system could offer a potential matrix to incorporate aluminium metal with a further reduction of pH by introduction of phosphate, producing a calcium phosphate cement.
A phase-field model for the solidification of multicomponent and multiphase alloys
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Qin, R. S.; Wallach, E. R.; Thomson, R. C.
A phase-field model for the simulation of solidification of a multicomponent and multiphase systems has been developed, which is based on an earlier developed multiphase field model for binary alloys and a phase-field multicomponent model for single-solid-phase systems. After incorporation with alloy thermodynamics and commercial software for the calculation of phase equilibria, the model has been implemented to study the microstructural evolution of an Al-11.5 mol% Si-0.9 mol% Cu-0.4 mol% Fe alloy. Numerical results for the morphological evolution of primary aluminium, silicon and AlFeSi intermetallic phases agree with experimental observations very well.
Stimulation of eryptosis by aluminium ions
Niemoeller, Olivier M.; Kiedaisch, Valentin; Dreischer, Peter; Wieder, Thomas; Lang, Florian . E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com
Aluminium salts are utilized to impede intestinal phosphate absorption in chronic renal failure. Toxic side effects include anemia, which could result from impaired formation or accelerated clearance of circulating erythrocytes. Erythrocytes may be cleared secondary to suicidal erythrocyte death or eryptosis, which is characterized by cell shrinkage and exposure of phosphatidylserine (PS) at the erythrocyte surface. As macrophages are equipped with PS receptors, they bind, engulf and degrade PS-exposing cells. The present experiments have been performed to explore whether Al{sup 3+} ions trigger eryptosis. The PS exposure was estimated from annexin binding and cell volume from forward scatter in FACS analysis. Exposure to Al{sup 3+} ions ({>=} 10 {mu}M Al{sup 3+} for 24 h) indeed significantly increased annexin binding, an effect paralleled by decrease of forward scatter at higher concentrations ({>=} 30 {mu}M Al{sup 3+}). According to Fluo3 fluorescence Al{sup 3+} ions ({>=} 30 {mu}M for 3 h) increased cytosolic Ca{sup 2+} activity. Al{sup 3+} ions ({>=} 10 {mu}M for 24 h) further decreased cytosolic ATP concentrations. Energy depletion by removal of glucose similarly triggered annexin binding, an effect not further enhanced by Al{sup 3+} ions. The eryptosis was paralleled by release of hemoglobin, pointing to loss of cell membrane integrity. In conclusion, Al{sup 3+} ions decrease cytosolic ATP leading to activation of Ca{sup 2+}-permeable cation channels, Ca{sup 2+} entry, stimulation of cell membrane scrambling and cell shrinkage. Moreover, Al{sup 3+} ions lead to loss of cellular hemoglobin, a feature of hemolysis. Both effects are expected to decrease the life span of circulating erythrocytes and presumably contribute to the development of anemia during Al{sup 3+} intoxication.
Electrochemical Codeposition of Al-Li-Mg Alloys at Solid Aluminum Electrode from LiCl-KCl-MgCl2 Molten Salt System
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Ye, Ke; Zhang, Mi Lin; Chen, Ye; Han, Wei; de Yan, Yong; Cao, Peng
The electrochemical codeposition of Mg and Li at an aluminium electrode in LiCl-KCl (50:50 wt pct) melts containing different concentrations of MgCl2 at 893 K (620 °C) to form Al-Li-Mg alloys was investigated. Cyclic voltammograms showed that the potential of Li metal deposition at an Al electrode, before the addition of MgCl2, is more positive than that of Li metal deposition at an Mo electrode, which indicated the formation of an Al-Li alloy. The underpotential deposition of magnesium at an aluminium electrode leads to the formation of Al-Mg alloys, and the succeeding underpotential deposition of lithium on predeposited Al-Mg alloys leads to the formation of Al-Li-Mg alloys. Chronopotentiometric measurements indicated that the codeposition of Mg and Li occurs at current densities lower than -0.668 A cm-2 in LiCl-KCl-MgCl2 (8 wt pct) melts at an aluminium electrode. The chronoamperometric studies indicated that the onset potential for the codeposition of Mg and Li is -2.000 V, and the codeposition of Mg and Li at an aluminium electrode is formed into Al-Li-Mg alloys when the applied potentials are more negative than -2.000 V. X-ray diffraction and inductively coupled plasma analysis indicated that Al-Li-Mg alloys with different lithium and magnesium contents were prepared via potentiostatic and galvanostatic electrolysis. The microstructure of typical dual phases of the Al-Li-Mg alloy was characterized by an optical microscope and by scanning electron microscopy. The analysis of energy dispersive spectrometry showed that the elements of Al and Mg distribute homogeneously in the Al-Li-Mg alloy. The lithium and magnesium contents of Al-Li-Mg alloys can be controlled by MgCl2 concentrations and by electrolytic parameters.
The effects of cutting fluid and other process variables on chip morphology when drilling cast aluminium alloys are investigated. The effects of workpiece material, speed, feed, hole depth, cutting-fluid presence and percentage oil concentration, workpiece temperature, drill t...
Wilhelm, H.A.; Ames, D.P.
A binary zirconiuin--antimony alloy is presented which is corrosion resistant and hard containing from 0.07% to 1.6% by weight of Sb. The alloys have good corrosion resistance and are useful in building equipment for the chemical industry.
Seybolt, A.U.
Uranium alloys containing from 0.1 to 10% by weight, but preferably at least 5%, of either zirconium, niobium, or molybdenum exhibit highly desirable nuclear and structural properties which may be improved by heating the alloy to about 900 d C for an extended period of time and then rapidly quenching it.
Different Approach to the Aluminium Oxide Topography Characterisation
Poljacek, Sanja Mahovic; Gojo, Miroslav; Raos, Pero; Stoic, Antun
Different surface topographic techniques are being widely used for quantitative measurements of typical industrial aluminium oxide surfaces. In this research, specific surface of aluminium oxide layer on the offset printing plate has been investigated by using measuring methods which have previously not been used for characterisation of such surfaces. By using two contact instruments and non-contact laser profilometer (LPM) 2D and 3D roughness parameters have been defined. SEM micrographs of the samples were made. Results have shown that aluminium oxide surfaces with the same average roughness value (Ra) and mean roughness depth (Rz) typically used in the printing plate surface characterisation, have dramatically different surface topographies. According to the type of instrument specific roughness parameters should be used for defining the printing plate surfaces. New surface roughness parameters were defined in order to insure detailed characterisation of the printing plates in graphic reproduction process.
Synthesis and characterization of a new aluminium-based compound.
Pascual-Cosp, José; Artiaga, Ramón; Corpas-Iglesias, Francisco; Benítez-Guerrero, Mónica
A new aluminium polynuclear crystalline species, Al(13)(OH)(30)(H(2)O)(15)Cl(9) has been synthesized and characterized. It is a particular case of the Al(13)(OH)(30-y)(H(2)O)(18-x)Cl(9) x zH(2)O family. It has been obtained from aluminium waste cans treated with HCl solution in strong acid media, followed by an ageing period. The crystalline structure of the complex was determined by XRD spectroscopy. Twelve reflections were found and indexed with the DICVOL04 software. Morphologically, a flattened preferred orientation was observed by SEM and FESEM. The chemical structure was studied by several absorption spectroscopy techniques: FTIR, ATR-FTIR and Raman dispersion spectroscopy. The coordination of the aluminium nuclei was determined by Al-MAS-NMR. Only octahedral sites were observed. Thermal characterization of the compound was performed by evolved gas analysis (EGA) coupled to simultaneous TGA-DSC. PMID:19655063
Aluminium toxicity in the rat liver and brain
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Yumoto, S.; Ohashi, H.; Nagai, H.; Kakimi, S.; Ishikawa, A.; Kobayashi, K.; Ogawa, Y.; Ishii, K.
To investigate the etiology of Alzheimer's disease, we examined the brain and liver tissue uptake of aluminium 5-75 days after aluminium injection into healthy rats. Ten days after the last injection, Al was detected in the brain and the brain cell nuclei by particle-induced X-ray emission (PIXE) analysis. Al was also demonstrated in the liver and the liver cell nuclei by PIXE analysis and electron energy loss spectrometry (EELS). The morphological changes of the rat brain examined 75 days after the injection were similar to those which have been reportedly observed in the brain of patients with Alzheimer's disease. These results support the theory that Alzheimer's disease is caused by irreversible accumulation of aluminium in the brain, as well as in the nuclei of brain cells.
NbTi superconductors with aluminium matrix
Buryak, V.P.; Dugadko, A.B.; Mironova, O.N.; Petrusenko, A.I. ); Bliznyuk, V.A.; Dolbinov, J.D.; Lykhin, V.A. )
This paper reports that the authors designed, produced and studied NbTi composite superconductors with Al, or Al-alloy, or combined Al and Cu matrix, which have reduced weight. Wires of different design with 0.5-2.0 mm diameter were manufactured using hydrostatic extrusion. The weight reduction in comparison with the same filling factor copper matrix superconductor achieves 20-40%. The overall critical current density at 5 T magnetic field is (1.6-2.8) {center dot} 10{sup 9} A/cm{sup 2}.
Laser micro welding of copper and aluminium using filler materials
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Esser, Gerd; Mys, Ihor; Schmidt, Michael H.
The most evident trend in electronics production is towards miniaturization. Regarding the materials involved, another trend can be observed: intelligent combinations of different materials. One example is the combination of copper and aluminium. Copper is the material of choice for electronic packaging applications due to its superior electrical and thermal conductivity. On the other hand, aluminium offers technical and economical advantages with respect to cost and component weight -- still providing thermal and electrical properties acceptable for numerous applications. Especially for high volume products, the best solution often seems to be a combination of both materials. This fact raises the question of joining copper and aluminium. With respect to miniaturization laser micro welding is a very promising joining technique. Unfortunately, the metallurgical incompatibility of copper and aluminium easily results in the formation of brittle intermetallic phases and segregations during laser welding, thus generating an unacceptable quality of the joints. This paper presents investigations on enhancing the quality during laser micro welding of copper and aluminium for applications in electronics production. In order to eliminate the formation of brittle intermetallic phases, the addition of a filter material in form of a foil has been investigated. It can be shown that the addition of pure metals such as nickel and especially silver significantly reduces the occurrence of brittle phases in the joining area and therefore leads to an increase in welding quality. The proper control of the volume fractions of copper, aluminium and filler material in the melting zone helps to avoid materials segregation and reduces residual stress, consequently leading to a reduction of crack affinity and a stabilization of the mechanical and electrical properties.
In situ observation and analysis of ultrasonic capillary effect in molten aluminium.
Tzanakis, I; Xu, W W; Eskin, D G; Lee, P D; Kotsovinos, N
An in situ synchrotron radiographic study of a molten Al-10 wt% Cu alloy under the influence of an external ultrasonic field was carried out using the Diamond-Manchester Branchline pink X-ray imaging at the Diamond Light Source in UK. A bespoke test rig was used, consisting of an acoustic transducer with a titanium sonotrode coupled with a PID-controlled resistance furnace. An ultrasonic frequency of 30 kHz, with a peak to peak amplitude at 140 microns, was used, producing a pressure output of 16.9 MPa at the radiation surface of the 1-mm diameter sonotrode. This allowed quantification of not only the cavitation bubble formation and collapse, but there was also evidence of the previously hypothesised ultrasonic capillary effect (UCE), providing the first direct observations of this phenomenon in a molten metallic alloy. This was achieved by quantifying the re-filling of a pre-existing groove in the shape of a tube (which acted as a micro-capillary channel) formed by the oxide envelope of the liquid sample. Analytical solutions of the flow suggest that the filling process, which took place in very small timescales, was related to micro-jetting from the collapsing cavitation bubbles. In addition, a secondary mechanism of liquid penetration through the groove, which is related with the density distribution of the oxides inside the groove, and practically to the filtration of aluminium melt from oxides, was revealed. The observation of the almost instantaneous re-filling of a micro-capillary channel with the metallic melt supports the hypothesised sono-capillary effect in technologically important liquids other than water, like metallic alloys with substantially higher surface tension and density. PMID:26186822
Die Soldering in Aluminium Die Casting
Han, Q.; Kenik, E.A.; Viswanathan, S.
Two types of tests, dipping tests and dip-coating tests were carried out on small steel cylinders using pure aluminum and 380 alloy to investigate the mechanism of die soldering during aluminum die casting. Optical and scanning electron microscopy were used to study the morphology and composition of the phases formed during soldering. A soldering mechanism is postulated based on experimental observations. A soldering critical temperature is postulated at which iron begins to react with aluminum to form an aluminum-rich liquid phase and solid intermetallic compounds. When the temperature at the die surface is higher than this critical temperature, the aluminum-rich phase is liquid and joins the die with the casting during the subsequent solidification. The paper discusses the mechanism of soldering for the case of pure aluminum and 380 alloy casting in a steel mold, the factors that promote soldering, and the strength of the bond formed when soldering occurs. conditions, an aluminum-rich soldering layer may also form over the intermetallic layer. Although a significant amount of research has been conducted on the nature of these intermetallics, little is known about the conditions under which soldering occurs.
Ultrasonic energy welds copper to aluminium
Flood, G.
Attempting to weld copper to aluminum by conventional means through the application of thermal energy to melt and fuse the two metals (fusion welding) can result in an unreliable weld. The oxide layer on aluminum is difficult to remove, the melt temperatures of the two metals are not close, the two metals exhibit high thermal conductivity and alloying of the two metals creates a brittle intermetallic that is mechanically and electrically unreliable. An alternative for design engineers is to weld copper to aluminum by applying ultrasonic energy, which joins the metals without melting. The ultrasonic process creates a high quality weld both mechanically and electrically without forming a brittle intermetallic and without intermediate steps. Ultrasonic welding of copper to aluminum has been shown to be efficient and effective as demonstrated by a number of practical production applications. The problems of tough oxides, high thermal conductivity, high electrical conductivity, intermetallics and brittle alloys are not significant with the ultrasonic welding process. And similarly, the problems associated with pre and postweld cleaning, fluxes, hot metal and high energy costs are eliminated. Modern ultrasonic welding equipment is capable of monitoring energy and controlling the critical welding process variables.
Accumulation of aluminium and physiological status of tree foliage in the vicinity of a large aluminium smelter.
Wannaz, E D; Rodriguez, J H; Wolfsberger, T; Carreras, H A; Pignata, M L; Fangmeier, A; Franzaring, J
A pollution gradient was observed in tree foliage sampled in the vicinity of a large aluminium production facility in Patagonia (Argentina). Leaves of Eucalyptus rostrata, and Populus hybridus and different needle ages of Pinus spec. were collected and concentrations of aluminium (Al) and sulphur (S) as well as physiological parameters (chlorophyll and lipid oxidation products) were analyzed. Al and S concentrations indicate a steep pollution gradient in the study showing a relationship with the physiological parameters in particular membrane lipid oxidation products. The present study confirms that aluminium smelting results in high Al and sulphur deposition in the study area, and therefore further studies should be carried out taking into account potentially adverse effects of these compounds on human and ecosystem health. PMID:22654642
Accumulation of Aluminium and Physiological Status of Tree Foliage in the Vicinity of a Large Aluminium Smelter
Wannaz, E. D.; Rodriguez, J. H.; Wolfsberger, T.; Carreras, H. A.; Pignata, M. L.; Fangmeier, A.; Franzaring, J.
A pollution gradient was observed in tree foliage sampled in the vicinity of a large aluminium production facility in Patagonia (Argentina). Leaves of Eucalyptus rostrata, and Populus hybridus and different needle ages of Pinus spec. were collected and concentrations of aluminium (Al) and sulphur (S) as well as physiological parameters (chlorophyll and lipid oxidation products) were analyzed. Al and S concentrations indicate a steep pollution gradient in the study showing a relationship with the physiological parameters in particular membrane lipid oxidation products. The present study confirms that aluminium smelting results in high Al and sulphur deposition in the study area, and therefore further studies should be carried out taking into account potentially adverse effects of these compounds on human and ecosystem health. PMID:22654642
Grain refinement in a AlZnMgCuTi alloy by intensive melt shearing: A multi-step nucleation mechanism
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Li, H. T.; Xia, M.; Jarry, Ph.; Scamans, G. M.; Fan, Z.
Direct chill (DC) cast ingots of wrought Al alloys conventionally require the deliberate addition of a grain refiner to provide a uniform as-cast microstructure for the optimisation of both mechanical properties and processability. Grain refiner additions have been in widespread industrial use for more than half a century. Intensive melt shearing can provide grain refinement without the need for a specific grain refiner addition for both magnesium and aluminium based alloys. In this paper we present experimental evidence of the grain refinement in an experimental wrought aluminium alloy achieved by intensive melt shearing in the liquid state prior to solidification. The mechanisms for high shear induced grain refinement are correlated with the evolution of oxides in alloys. The oxides present in liquid aluminium alloys, normally as oxide films and clusters, can be effectively dispersed by intensive shearing and then provide effective sites for the heterogeneous nucleation of Al 3Ti phase. As a result, Al 3Ti particles with a narrower size distribution and hence improved efficiency as active nucleation sites of α-aluminium grains are responsible for the achieved significant grain refinement. This is termed a multi-step nucleation mechanism.
The influence of laser alloying on the structure and mechanical properties of AlMg5Si2Mn surface layers
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Pakieła, W.; Tański, T.; Brytan, Z.; Labisz, K.
The goal of this paper was focused on investigation of microstructure and properties of surface layer produced during laser surface treatment of aluminium alloy by high-power fibre laser. The performed laser treatment involves remelting and feeding of Inconel 625 powder into the aluminium surface. As a base metal was used aluminium alloy AlMg5Si2Mn. The Inconel powder was injected into the melt pool and delivered by a vacuum feeder at a constant rate of 4.5 g/min. The size of Inconel alloying powder was in the range 60-130 µm. In order to remelt the aluminium alloy surface, the fibre laser of 3 kW laser beam power has been used. The linear laser scan rate of the beam was set 0.5 m/min. Based on performed investigations, it was possible to obtain the layer consisting of heat-affected zone, transition zone and remelted zone, without cracks and defects having much higher hardness value compared to the non-alloyed material.
Chynoweth, W.
The preparation of low-melting-point plutonium alloys is described. In a MgO crucible Pu is placed on top of the lighter alloying metal (Fe, Co, or Ni) and the temperature raised to 1000 or 1200 deg C. Upon cooling, the alloy slug is broke out of the crucible. With 14 at. % Ni the m.p. is 465 deg C; with 9.5 at. % Fe the m.p. is 410 deg C; and with 12.0 at. % Co the m.p. is 405 deg C. (T.R.H.) l6262 l6263 ((((((((Abstract unscannable))))))))
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Blackburn, Linda B. (Inventor); Starke, Edgar A., Jr. (Inventor)
This invention relates to aluminum alloys, particularly to aluminum-copper-lithium alloys containing at least about 0.1 percent by weight of indium as an essential component, which are suitable for applications in aircraft and aerospace vehicles. At least about 0.1 percent by weight of indium is added as an essential component to an alloy which precipitates a T1 phase (Al2CuLi). This addition enhances the nucleation of the precipitate T1 phase, producing a microstructure which provides excellent strength as indicated by Rockwell hardness values and confirmed by standard tensile tests.
A Numerical Analysis of the Resistance and Stiffness of the Aluminium and Concrete Composite Beam
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Polus, Łukasz; Szumigała, Maciej
In this paper a numerical analysis of the resistance and stiffness of the aluminium and concrete composite beam is presented. Composite aluminium and concrete structures are quite new and they have not been thoroughly tested. Composite structures have a lot of advantages. The composite aluminium and concrete beam is more corrosion-resistant, fire-resistant and stiff than the aluminium beam. The contemporary idea of sustainable buildings relies on new solutions which are more environmentally friendly. Aluminium is lighter and more resistant to corrosion than steel, which is often used in composite structures.
Investigation of electrorefining of metallic alloy fuel onto solid Al cathodes
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Cassayre, L.; Malmbeck, R.; Masset, P.; Rebizant, J.; Serp, J.; Soucek, P.; Glatz, J.-P.
This work concerned the electrorefining of UZr and UPuZr alloys on a solid aluminium cathode, in the LiCl-KCl eutectic melt containing U 3+, Pu 3+, Np 3+, Zr 2+ or Zr 4+, Am 3+, Nd 3+, Y 3+, Ce 3+ and Gd 3+ chlorides. During constant current electrolyses, the use of a cathodic cut-off potential (-1.25 V versus Ag/AgCl) allowed to selectively deposit actinides (mainly U), while lanthanides remained in the salt. The aim was to determine the maximal load achievable on a single aluminium electrode. The total exchange charge was 4300 C, which represents the deposition of 3.72 g of actinides in 4.17 g Al, yielding a composition of 44.6 wt% An in Al. It was shown that the melting of the cathode contributed to increase the total amount of actinides deposited on the aluminium.
Porphyry copper enrichment linked to excess aluminium in plagioclase
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Williamson, B. J.; Herrington, R. J.; Morris, A.
Porphyry copper deposits provide around 75%, 50% and 20% of world copper, molybdenum and gold, respectively. The deposits are mainly centred on calc-alkaline porphyry magmatic systems in subduction zone settings. Although calc-alkaline magmas are relatively common, large porphyry copper deposits are extremely rare and increasingly difficult to discover. Here, we compile existing geochemical data for magmatic plagioclase, a dominant mineral in calc-alkaline rocks, from fertile (porphyry-associated) and barren magmatic systems worldwide, barren examples having no associated porphyry deposit. We show that plagioclase from fertile systems is distinct in containing `excess' aluminium. This signature is clearly demonstrated in a case study carried out on plagioclase from the fertile La Paloma and Los Sulfatos copper porphyry systems in Chile. Further, the presence of concentric zones of high excess aluminium suggests its incorporation as a result of magmatic processes. As excess aluminium has been linked to high melt water contents, the concentric zones may record injections of hydrous fluid or fluid-rich melts into the sub-porphyry magma chamber. We propose that excess aluminium may exclude copper from plagioclase, so enriching the remaining melts. Furthermore, this chemical signature can be used as an exploration indicator for copper porphyry deposits.
Molecular Characterization of Aluminium (aluminum) Tolerance in Rye
Technology Transfer Automated Retrieval System (TEKTRAN)
Aluminium (Al) toxicity, affecting around half of the world's arable land, severely hinders the ability of crop plants to utilize moisture and nutrients by restricting root growth and function. Among the cultivated cereals, rye is the most Al-tolerant and represents an important potential source of ...
On the anodic aluminium oxide refractive index of nanoporous templates
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Hierro-Rodriguez, A.; Rocha-Rodrigues, P.; Valdés-Bango, F.; Alameda, J. M.; Jorge, P. A. S.; Santos, J. L.; Araujo, J. P.; Teixeira, J. M.; Guerreiro, A.
In the present study, we have determined the intrinsic refractive index of anodic aluminium oxide, which is originated by the formation of nanoporous alumina templates. Different templates have been fabricated by the conventional two-step anodization procedure in oxalic acid. Their porosities were modified by chemical wet etching allowing the tuning of their effective refractive indexes (air-filled nanopores + anodic aluminium oxide). By standard spectroscopic light transmission measurements, the effective refractive index for each different template was extracted in the VIS-NIR region. The determination of the intrinsic anodic aluminium oxide refractive index was performed by using the Maxwell-Garnett homogenization theory. The results are coincident for all the fabricated samples. The obtained refractive index (~1.55) is quite lower (~22%) than the commonly used Al2O3 handbook value (~1.75), showing that the amorphous nature of the anodic oxide structure strongly conditions its optical properties. This difference is critical for the correct design and modeling of optical plasmonic metamaterials based on anodic aluminium oxide nanoporous templates.
Aluminium in food and daily dietary intake estimate in Greece.
Bratakos, Sotirios M; Lazou, Andriana E; Bratakos, Michael S; Lazos, Evangelos S
Aluminium content of foods, as well as dietary aluminium intake of the Greek adult population, was determined using graphite furnace atomic absorption spectroscopy after microwave sample digestion and food consumption data. Al content ranged from 0.02 to 741.2 mg kg⁻¹, with spices, high-spice foods, cereal products, vegetables and pulses found to be high in Al. Differences in aluminium content were found between different food classes from Greece and those from some other countries. Aluminium intake of Greeks is 3.7 mg/day based on DAFNE Food Availability Databank, which uses data from the Household Budget Surveys. On the other hand, according to the per capita food consumption data collected by both national and international organisations, Al intake is 6.4 mg day⁻¹. Greek adult population has an Al intake lower than the Provisional Tolerable Weekly Intake of 7 mg kg⁻¹ body weight established by EFSA. Cereals and vegetables are the main Al contributors, providing 72.4% of daily intake. PMID:24779693
The effects of ingested aluminium on brain cytochrome oxidase activity.
Mohan, N; Alleyne, T; Adogwa, A
Aluminium has a unique combination of physical and chemical properties which has enabled man to put this metal to very wide and varied use. However prolonged exposure to aluminium ions may lead to adverse health effects. In this study, we evaluated the effects of dietary aluminium on the protein composition and the intrinsic activity of cytochrome oxidase (COX) for brain mitochondria. New Zealand white rabbits were maintained on a diet of commercial rabbit pellets and distilled water for a period of 12 weeks. For the experimental group, AlCl3, 330 mg/kg/L was added to the drinking water. When compared to the control, mitochondria isolated from the brains of the AICl3 fed rabbits showed no change in Km but an approximate 35% decrease in both the low and high affinity Vmax values. Also, whereas the protein composition of the mitochondria from both sources appeared to be normal, isolation of highly purified COX proved to be difficult and for the AlCl3 fed rabbits, a number of the enzyme's low molecular weight subunits were absent. These results appear to confirm a relationship between long term aluminium consumption and low brain COX activity; they further suggest that an altered COX structure may be the cause of the low enzymic activity. PMID:20441059
LASERS IN MEDICINE: Two-photon excitation of aluminium phthalocyanines
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Meshalkin, Yu P.; Alfimov, E. E.; Vasil'ev, N. E.; Denisov, A. N.; Makukha, V. K.; Ogirenko, A. P.
A demonstration is given of the feasibility of two-photon excitation of aluminium phthalocyanine and of the pharmaceutical preparation 'Fotosens', used in photodynamic therapy. The excitation source was an Nd:YAG laser emitting at the 1064 nm wavelength. The spectra of the two-photon-excited luminescence were obtained and the two-photon absorption cross sections were determined.
Aluminium hydride: a reversible material for hydrogen storage.
Zidan, Ragaiy; Garcia-Diaz, Brenda L; Fewox, Christopher S; Stowe, Ashley C; Gray, Joshua R; Harter, Andrew G
Aluminium hydride has been synthesized electrochemically, providing a synthetic route which closes a reversible cycle for regeneration of the material and bypasses expensive thermodynamic costs which have precluded AlH(3) from being considered as a H(2) storage material. PMID:19557259
Donnelly, R.G.; Gilliland, R.G.; Slaughter, G.M.
A brazing alloy is described which, in the molten state, is characterized by excellent wettability and flowability and is capable of forming a corrosion-resistant brazed joint. At least one component of said joint is graphite and the other component is a corrosion-resistant refractory metal. The brazing alloy consists essentially of 40 to 90 wt % of gold, 5 to 35 wt% of nickel, and 1 to 45 wt% of tantalum. (AEC)
Harman, C.G.; O'Bannon, L.S.
A coating is described for iron group metals and alloys, that is particularly suitable for use with nickel containing alloys. The coating is glassy in nature and consists of a mixture containing an alkali metal oxide, strontium oxide, and silicon oxide. When the glass coated nickel base metal is"fired'' at less than the melting point of the coating, it appears the nlckel diffuses into the vitreous coating, thus providing a closely adherent and protective cladding.
Segregation phenomena at growing alumina/alloy interfaces
Hou, Peggy Y.
The chemistry and structure at the scale/alloy interface are important factors governing scale adhesion. The chemical changes can occur from segregation of impurities in the alloy, such as sulphur and carbon, or alloying elements such as chromium, aluminium and reactive elements. This paper reviews studies of the changes of interfacial composition with oxidation time for Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} formed on several model alumina-forming alloys, and tries to relate that to the interfacial strength. Results show that sulphur segregation to oxide/metal interfaces can indeed occur, but the type and amount of segregants at the interface depend on the alloy composition and the interface structure. Co-segregation of impurities with alloying elements can also occur, resulting in multi-layer segregants at the interface. Sulphur-containing interfaces are indeed weaker, but the major role of sulphur is to enhance interfacial void formation. Reactive elements in the alloy not only gather sulfur but also exert an additional positive effect on scale adhesion.
Formability Analysis of Magnesium Alloy Sheet Bulging Using FE Simulation
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Mac Donald, B. J.; Hunt, D.; Yoshihara, S.; Manabe, K.
There is currently much focus on the application of magnesium alloys to automotive structural components. This has arisen due to the positive environmental aspects associated with use of magnesium alloys such as weight reduction and recycling potential. In recent years many researchers have focused on the application of various forming processes to magnesium alloys. Magnesium alloys would seem highly suitable for sheet forming due to high N and r values, however, in application their formability has been inferior to, for example, aluminium alloys. It has thus been concluded that, when dealing with magnesium alloys, it is difficult to predict formability based on material properties. In order to improve formability and forming accuracy when using Mg alloys it is necessary to build a database and inference system which could decide the optimal forming parameters for complex automotive components. Currently not enough data is available to build such a database due to the limited number of studies available in literature. In this study an experimental analysis of hemispherical bulge forming at elevated temperature was undertaken in order to evaluate formability and hence build a database for forming process design. A finite element model based on the experiment has been built and validated against the experimental results. A ductile failure criterion has been integrated with the FE model and is used to predict the onset of failure. This paper discusses the development and validation of the finite element model with the ductile failure criterion and presents results from the experimental tests and FE simulations.
Crashworthiness of Aluminium Tubes; Part 1: Hydroforming at Different Corner-Fill Radii and End Feeding Levels
D'Amours, Guillaume; Rahem, Ahmed; Williams, Bruce; Worswick, Michael; Mayer, Robert
The automotive industry, with an increasing demand to reduce vehicle weight through the adoption of lightweight materials, requires a search of efficient methods that suit these materials. One attractive concept is to use hydroforming of aluminium tubes. By using FE simulations, the process can be optimized to reduce the risk for failure while maintaining energy absorption and component integrity under crash conditions. It is important to capture the level of residual ductility after forming to allow proper design for crashworthiness. This paper presents numerical and experimental studies that have been carried out for high pressure hydroforming operations to study the influence of the tube corner radius, end feeding, material thinning, and work hardening in 76.2 mm diameter, 3 mm wall thickness AA5754 aluminium alloy tube. End feeding was used to increase the formability of the tubes. The influence of the end feed displacement versus tube forming pressure schedule was studied to optimize the forming process operation to reduce thinning. Validation of the numerical simulations was performed by comparison of the predicted strain distributions and thinning, with measured quantities. The effect of element formulation (thin shell versus solid elements) was also considered in the models.
A silane pre-treatment for improving corrosion resistance performances of emeraldine base-coated aluminium samples in neutral environment
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Cecchetto, Laura; Denoyelle, Alain; Delabouglise, Didier; Petit, Jean-Pierre
An aluminium-magnesium alloy AA5182 substrate pre-treated with a 3-aminopropyl-triethoxysilane (APS)-based solution and coated with emeraldine base (EB) showed improved corrosion resistance to neutral salt spray test, compared to samples pre-treated with phosphoric acid-based solutions prior to the EB coating. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDX) characterisations of samples pre-treated with APS showed the presence of an uneven silane coating on the aluminium surface according to the surface microstructure. The potentiodynamic study performed on the EB-coated samples showed a noticeable reduction of corrosion current of coupons pre-treated with APS, while no relevant difference in corrosion behaviour was observed between APS and phosphoric acid pre-treated samples prior to the EB coating. The coupling activity of APS between the AA5182 surface and EB coating at the most sensitive corrosion sites could be responsible of an improved adhesion of the EB coating at these points and could explain the observed improved corrosion resistance.
Crashworthiness of Aluminium Tubes; Part 1: Hydroforming at Different Corner-Fill Radii and End Feeding Levels
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
D'Amours, Guillaume; Rahem, Ahmed; Williams, Bruce; Worswick, Michael; Mayer, Robert
The automotive industry, with an increasing demand to reduce vehicle weight through the adoption of lightweight materials, requires a search of efficient methods that suit these materials. One attractive concept is to use hydroforming of aluminium tubes. By using FE simulations, the process can be optimized to reduce the risk for failure while maintaining energy absorption and component integrity under crash conditions. It is important to capture the level of residual ductility after forming to allow proper design for crashworthiness. This paper presents numerical and experimental studies that have been carried out for high pressure hydroforming operations to study the influence of the tube corner radius, end feeding, material thinning, and work hardening in 76.2 mm diameter, 3 mm wall thickness AA5754 aluminium alloy tube. End feeding was used to increase the formability of the tubes. The influence of the end feed displacement versus tube forming pressure schedule was studied to optimize the forming process operation to reduce thinning. Validation of the numerical simulations was performed by comparison of the predicted strain distributions and thinning, with measured quantities. The effect of element formulation (thin shell versus solid elements) was also considered in the models.
On the hot cracking susceptibility of a semisolid aluminium 6061 weld: Application of a coupled solidification- thermomechanical model
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Zareie Rajani, H. R.; Phillion, A. B.
A coupled solidification-thermomechanical model is presented that investigates the hot tearing susceptibility of an aluminium 6061 semisolid weld. Two key phenomena are considered: excessive deformation of the semisolid weld, initiating a hot tear, and the ability of the semisolid weld to heal the hot tear by circulation of the molten metal. The model consists of two major modules: weld solidification and thermomechanical analysis. 1) By means of a multi-scale model of solidification, the microstructural evolution of the semisolid weld is simulated in 3D. The semisolid structure, which varies as a function of welding parameters, is composed of solidifying grains and a network of micro liquid channels. The weld solidification module is utilized to obtain the solidification shrinkage. The size of the micro liquid channels is used as an indicator to assess the healing ability of the semisolid weld. 2) Using the finite element method, the mechanical interaction between the weld pool and the base metal is simulated to capture the transient force field deforming the semisolid weld. Thermomechanical stresses and shrinkage stresses are both considered in the analysis; the solidification contractions are extracted from the weld solidification module and applied to the deformation simulation as boundary conditions. Such an analysis enables characterization of the potential for excessive deformation of the weld. The outputs of the model are used to study the effect of welding parameters including welding current and speed, and also welding constraint on the hot cracking susceptibility of an aluminium alloy 6061 semisolid weld.
Aluminium in allergen-specific subcutaneous immunotherapy--a German perspective.
Kramer, Matthias F; Heath, Matthew D
We are living in an "aluminium age" with increasing bioavailability of the metal for approximately 125 years, contributing significantly to the aluminium body burden of humans. Over the course of life, aluminium accumulates and is stored predominantly in the lungs, bones, liver, kidneys and brain. The toxicity of aluminium in humans is briefly summarised, highlighting links and possible causal relationships between a high aluminium body burden and a number of neurological disorders and disease states. Aluminium salts have been used as depot-adjuvants successfully in essential prophylactic vaccinations for almost 100 years, with a convincing positive benefit-risk assessment which remains unchanged. However, allergen-specific immunotherapy commonly consists of administering a long-course programme of subcutaneous injections using preparations of relevant allergens. Regulatory authorities currently set aluminium limits for vaccines per dose, rather than per treatment course. Unlike prophylactic vaccinations, numerous injections with higher proportions of aluminium-adjuvant per injection are applied in subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) and will significantly contribute to a higher cumulative life dose of aluminium. While the human body may cope robustly with a daily aluminium overload from the environment, regulatory cumulative threshold values in immunotherapy need further addressing. Based on the current literature, predisposing an individual to an unusually high level of aluminium, such as through subcutaneous immunotherapy, has the potential to form focal accumulations in the body with the propensity to exert forms of toxicity. Particularly in relation to longer-term health effects, the safety of aluminium adjuvants in immunotherapy remains unchallenged by health authorities - evoking the need for more consideration, guidance, and transparency on what is known and not known about its safety in long-course therapy and what measures can be taken to prevent or
Effect of inlet geometry on macrosegregation during the direct chill casting of 7050 alloy billets: experiments and computer modelling
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Zhang, L.; Eskin, D. G.; Miroux, A.; Subroto, T.; Katgerman, L.
Controlling macrosegregation is one of the major challenges in direct-chill (DC) casting of aluminium alloys. In this paper, the effect of the inlet geometry (which influences the melt distribution) on macrosegregation during the DC casting of 7050 alloy billets was studied experimentally and by using 2D computer modelling. The ALSIM model was used to determine the temperature and flow patterns during DC casting. The results from the computer simulations show that the sump profiles and flow patterns in the billet are strongly influenced by the melt flow distribution determined by the inlet geometry. These observations were correlated to the actual macrosegregation patterns found in the as-cast billets produced by having two different inlet geometries. The macrosegregation analysis presented here may assist in determining the critical parameters to consider for improving the casting of 7XXX aluminium alloys.
Microstructural analysis of Al alloys dispersed with TiB2 particulate for MMC applications
Wang; Brydson; Jha; Ellis
A dispersion of TiB2 particulates in an Al alloy matrix was formed via the in-situ reaction between mixtures of K2TiF6 (K2ZrF6), KBF4 and molten aluminium. The dispersion of the ceramic phase in the aluminium matrix was also achieved in some experiments by adding exogenous TiB2 particles to the fluoride melt in contact with molten aluminium. In this work, we have examined the microstructure of the as-cast metal matrix composites using analytical electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction techniques. The phases formed as a result of the reaction between the molten fluoride flux and liquid aluminium have been identified. These were (Ti, Zr, Al)B2, Al3Ti and possibly AlB12 in the Al-matrix, and KAlF4 and KMgF3 in the solidified flux. The mechanism of formation of TiB2 and Al3Ti is explained. The role of alloying elements is also explained in the context of interfacial chemistry and dispersion. PMID:10540266
Microstructural, mechanical and electrochemical behaviour of a 7017 Al–Zn–Mg alloy of different tempers
Rout, Prasanta Kumar Ghosh, M.M.; Ghosh, K.S.
The aim of the investigation is to assess the microstructural features and associated physical, mechanical and electrochemical properties of a 7017 Al–Zn–Mg alloy of various tempers. A 7017 Al–Zn–Mg alloy was subjected to different ageing schedules to produce under-(T4), peak-(T6), over-(T7) and highly over-aged tempers. Optical microscopy, hardness measurement, electrical conductivity measurement, tensile testing and SEM fractographs, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and electrochemical polarization studies have been used to characterize the alloy tempers. Hardness measurement and tensile testing showed the characteristic age hardening phenomenon of aluminium alloys. Optical and TEM micrographs have revealed the variation in size of matrix strengthening η′ (MgZn{sub 2}) and also the size and distribution of grain boundary η (MgZn{sub 2}) precipitate with ageing time. DSC thermograms exhibiting exothermic and endothermic peaks indicated the characteristic solid state reaction sequence of the 7017 alloy. Potentiodynamic polarization study of the 7017 alloy of various tempers in 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution at near neutral pH showed typical active metal dissolution behaviour, but at pH 12 an active–passive–transpassive transition behaviour has been observed. - Graphical abstract: TEM micrograph of the 7017 aluminium alloy of various tempers (a, b) under aged (T4), (c, d) peak aged (T6), (e, f) over aged (T7) and (g, h) highly over-aged. Display Omitted - Highlights: • 7017 Al-Zn-Mg alloy was subjected to different artificial ageing treatments. • Characterization of 7017 alloy tempers by hardness, tensile, DSC, TEM and electrochemical behaviour. • Structure-properties relationship of the 7017 Al-Zn-Mg alloy of various tempers.
Aluminium content of foods originating from aluminium-containing food additives.
Ogimoto, Mami; Suzuki, Kumi; Haneishi, Nahoko; Kikuchi, Yuu; Takanashi, Mayu; Tomioka, Naoko; Uematsu, Yoko; Monma, Kimio
Aluminium (Al) levels of 90 food samples were investigated. Nineteen samples contained Al levels exceeding the tolerable weekly intake (TWI) for young children [body weight (bw): 16 kg] when consuming two servings/week. These samples were purchased multiple times at specific intervals and were evaluated for Al levels. Al was detected in 27 of the 90 samples at levels ranging from 0.01 (limit of quantitation) to 1.06 mg/g. Of these, the Al intake levels in two samples (cookie and scone mix, 1.3 and 2 mg/kg bw/week, respectively) exceeded the TWI as established by European Food Safety Authority, although the level in the scone mix was equivalent to the provisional TWI (PTWI) as established by Joint Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations/World Health Organization Expert Committee on Food Additives. The Al levels markedly decreased in 14 of the 19 samples with initially high Al levels. These results indicated reductions in the Al levels to below the PTWI limits in all but two previously identified food samples. PMID:27092423
Diffusion bonding of an aluminum-copper alloy reinforced with silicon carbide particles (AA2014/SiC/13p) using metallic interlayers
Urena, A.; Gomez de Salazar, J.M.; Escalera, M.D.
In this work, the application of solid state diffusion bonding to a SiC particulate reinforced aluminium-copper alloy (AA2014) has been studied. The use of metallic interlayers such as an aluminum-lithium alloy and pure silver, has been tested. Bonding interfaces were microstructural characterized using scanning electron (SEM) and transmission electron microscopies (TEM). Joint strengths were evaluated by shear mechanical tests, completed with fractographic studies to determine the failure mechanisms of each kind of joint.
Elevated temperature aluminum alloys
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Meschter, Peter (Inventor); Lederich, Richard J. (Inventor); O'Neal, James E. (Inventor)
Three aluminum-lithium alloys are provided for high performance aircraft structures and engines. All three alloys contain 3 wt % copper, 2 wt % lithium, 1 wt % magnesium, and 0.2 wt % zirconium. Alloy 1 has no further alloying elements. Alloy 2 has the addition of 1 wt % iron and 1 wt % nickel. Alloy 3 has the addition of 1.6 wt % chromium to the shared alloy composition of the three alloys. The balance of the three alloys, except for incidentql impurities, is aluminum. These alloys have low densities and improved strengths at temperatures up to 260.degree. C. for long periods of time.
The improvement of aluminium casting process control by application of the new CRIMSON process
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Dai, X.; Jolly, M.; Zeng, B.
All The traditional foundry usually not only uses batch melting where the aluminium alloys are melted and held in a furnace for long time, but also uses the gravity filling method in both Sand Casting Process (SCP) and Investment Casting Process (ICP). In the gravity filling operation, the turbulent behaviour of the liquid metal causes substantial entrainment of the surface oxide films which are subsequently trapped into the liquid and generate micro cracks and casting defects. In this paper a new CRIMSON process is introduced which features instead of gravity filling method, using the single shot up-casting method to realize the rapid melting and rapid filling mould operations which reduce the contact time between the melt and environment thus reducing the possibility of defect generation. Another advantage of the new process is the drastic reduction of energy consumption due to shortened melting and filling time. Two types of casting samples from SCP and ICP were compared with the new process. The commercial software was used to simulate the filling and solidification processes of the casting samples. The results show that the new process has a more improved behaviour during filling a mould and solidification than the two conventional casting processes.
Cluster identification in AA5754 aluminium sheets using mathematical morphology analysis.
Tewari, A; Tiwari, S; Biswas, P; Mishra, R K
Quantitative image analysis of particle distribution in the microstructure of continuous cast (CC) and direct chill cast (DC) AA5754 aluminium alloy sheets have been conducted. This information can be used as an input for modelling mechanical deformation and instability in these materials. The quantitative analysis reveals that there are significant differences in the microstructure of the two materials even though the total content of second-phase particles is statistically similar. Qualitative observation shows the second-phase particles to be arranged in the form of streaks parallel to the rolling direction in the CC sheets and in a uniform random manner in the DC sheets. The main difference in the geometric microstructure of the CC and DC material is the spatial arrangement of the second-phase particles. A new mathematical technique called proximity analysis is developed to identify clusters and group of particles belonging to a cluster. Quantification through proximity analysis reveals that the particle clusters in CC sheet are in the form of long clusters (streaks) parallel to the rolling direction and are significantly longer than those in DC sheets (with the largest cluster in CC being four times larger than DC), and also have anisotropic angular orientation parallel to the rolling direction. The lower value of fracture strain observed in the CC sheets compared to DC sheets is attributed to a combination of large sizes of clusters and their preferential alignment along the rolling direction in the CC microstructure. PMID:18445147
Bioleaching of zinc and aluminium from industrial waste sludges by means of Thiobacillus ferrooxidans.
Solisio, C; Lodi, A; Veglio, F
Biological solubilisation of heavy metals contained in two different kinds of industrial wastes was performed in batches employing a strain of Thiobacillus ferroxidans. The wastes tested were: a dust coming from the iron-manganese alloy production in an electric furnace (sludge 1) and a sludge coming from a process treatment plant of aluminium anodic oxidation (sludge 2). The experimental results pointed out the ability of the used strain to maintain the environment, that initially has a pH about 8, at strongly acid conditions (pH 2.5-3.5), producing sulphuric acid that is the chemical agent responsible for the metals solubilisation. At wastes initial concentration of 1%, the percentage of solubilised metals was 76 and 78% for the wastes 1 and 2, respectively, but the lag phase was considerably longer for sludge 2 than for sludge 1, indicating a different affinity of microorganisms for the solid phase. Increasing the initial slurry concentration, the percentage of removed metal reached 72-73% for the sludge 1, while in case of sludge 2, the total amount of solubilized metal progressively decreased. Two kinetic models are proposed to describe the trends of metals solubilization curves. PMID:12214978
Influence of delay step conditions between quenching and aging on the precipitation mechanisms in the alloy AlZnMg AA7028 aging process
Calatayud, A.; Ferrer, C.; Amigo, V.; Salvador, M.D.
Among precipitation-hardened alloys, the Al-Zn-Mg system includes the aluminium alloys with higher-strength. The relatively high solubility of Zn and Mg in aluminium makes it possible to produce a high density of precipitates, which results in a higher strength increase. AlZnMg low copper or copper free alloys have the advantage of being easily weldable and, moreover, they harden significantly at room temperature with respect to other weldable aluminium alloys. Due to the remarkable degree of natural aging achieved by AA7000 alloys, the time interval at room temperature between quenching and the beginning of the artificial aging treatment is a variable that must be taken into account. This work was undertaken to evaluate the influence of cooling kinetics at quenching on alloy mechanical characteristics in artificial aging at several temperatures T{sub 2}. The effect of variables that define delays after quenching, basically time t{sub 1} and temperature T{sub 1} was also analyzed. Likewise, this work studies microstructural evolution of material exposed to aging treatments, resulting from the combination of the above mentioned variables.
Internal combustion engine having aluminum alloy cylinder block
Ogawa, N.
An internal combustion engine is described comprising: a cylinder block formed of aluminium alloy and having main bearing bulkheads each of which is formed with a bearing surface; main bearing caps formed of aluminium alloy and securely connected, respectively, with the bearing bulkheads, the bearing caps being formed with bearing surfaces which are located, respectively, in opposition to the bearing surfaces of the bearing bulkhead; a crankshaft formed of iron alloy and rotatably supported by the bearing bulkheads and the bearing caps. The main journal of the crankshaft is located between the bearing surfaces of the bearing bulkheads and the bearing caps. The surface of the crankshaft main journal is in direct contact with the bearing surfaces of the bearing bulkheads and the bearing caps; and means defining an oil groove on the bearing surface of each bearing bulkhead for supplying engine lubricating oil between the crankshaft main journal and the bearing surfaces of the bearing bulkheads and the bearing caps. The oil groove extends along the periphery of the bearing bulkhead bearing surfaces, the bearing surfaces of the bearing caps being free of oil grooves so as to provide maximum contacting area with the main crankshaft journal to absorb greater explosive force.
Ultra large deflection of thin PZT/aluminium cantilever beam
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Seveno, Raynald; Guiffard, Benoit; Regoin, Jean-Pierre
Flexible piezoelectric cantilever beam has been realized by depositing lead zirconate titanate (PZT) thin film (4.5 μm) by chemical solution deposition (CSD) onto very thin aluminium foil (16 μm). The tip deflection of the beam has been measured as a function of the frequency of the applied sinusoidal voltage to the PZT film for different amplitudes. Resonance curves have been compared to a classical model of an oscillating system under sinusoidal stress with a very good agreement. Despite of weak ferroelectric properties (remnant polarization: 13 μC/cm2), ultra-large deflection amplitudes have been measured under very moderate applied voltage values: 750 μm@10 V for quasi-static mode and 5 mm@10 V at the resonance frequency ( 12 Hz), which makes this PZT/aluminium composite film very promising for highly flexible actuation applications where large displacements are wanted.
Histopathological changes in cases of aluminium phosphide poisoning.
Sinha, U S; Kapoor, A K; Singh, A K; Gupta, A; Mehrotra, Ravi
Of a total of 205 poisoning deaths in our hospital in 2003, 83 cases were due to Aluminium phosphide poisoning and were further analyzed. Most vulnerable age group was 21-40 years and M:F ratio was 2:1. On naked eye examination, almost all the vital organs were found to be congested. On microscopic study, the liver showed central venous congestion, degeneration, haemorrhage, sinusoidal dilation, bile stasis, centrilobular necrosis, Kupffer cell hyperplasia, infiltration by mononuclear cells and fatty change. Microscopy of the lungs revealed alveolar thickening, oedema, dilated capillaries, collapsed alveoli and haemorrhage. In the kidney, changes were degeneration, infiltration, tubular dilation and cloudy swelling. Changes in the brain included congestion and coagulative necrosis and in the stomach, congestion and haemorrhage. Easy availability of this cheap and highly toxic substance was responsible for the sudden spurt of poisoning with aluminium phosphide. PMID:16758658
Experimental evidence for a dynamical crossover in liquid aluminium.
Demmel, F; Fraile, A; Szubrin, D; Pilgrim, W-C; Morkel, C
The temperature dependence of the dynamic structure factor at next-neighbour distances has been investigated for liquid aluminium. This correlation function is a sensitive parameter for changes in the local environment and its Fourier transform was measured in a coherent inelastic neutron scattering experiment. The zero frequency amplitude decreases in a nonlinear way and indicates a change in dynamics around 1.4 ∙ Tmelting. From that amplitude a generalized viscosity can be derived which is a measure of local stress correlations on next-neighbour distances. The derived generalized longitudinal viscosity shows a changing slope at the same temperature range. At this temperature the freezing out of degrees of freedom for structural relaxation upon cooling sets in which can be understood as a precursor towards the solid state. That crossover in dynamics of liquid aluminium shows the same signatures as previously observed in liquid rubidium and lead, indicating an universal character. PMID:26465204
Experimental evidence for a dynamical crossover in liquid aluminium
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Demmel, F.; Fraile, A.; Szubrin, D.; Pilgrim, W.-C.; Morkel, C.
The temperature dependence of the dynamic structure factor at next-neighbour distances has been investigated for liquid aluminium. This correlation function is a sensitive parameter for changes in the local environment and its Fourier transform was measured in a coherent inelastic neutron scattering experiment. The zero frequency amplitude decreases in a nonlinear way and indicates a change in dynamics around 1.4\\cdot {{T}\\text{melting}} . From that amplitude a generalized viscosity can be derived which is a measure of local stress correlations on next-neighbour distances. The derived generalized longitudinal viscosity shows a changing slope at the same temperature range. At this temperature the freezing out of degrees of freedom for structural relaxation upon cooling sets in which can be understood as a precursor towards the solid state. That crossover in dynamics of liquid aluminium shows the same signatures as previously observed in liquid rubidium and lead, indicating an universal character.
Preparation and Electrochemical Characterization of Aluminium Liquid Battery Cells With Two Different Electrolytes (NaCl-BaCl2-AlF3-NaF and LiF-AlF3-BaF2).
Napast, Viktor; Moškon, Jože; Homšak, Marko; Petek, Aljana; Gaberšček, Miran
The possibility of preparation of operating rechargeable liquid battery cells based on aluminium and its alloys is systematically checked. In all cases we started from aluminium as the negative electrode whereas as the positive electrode three different metals were tested: Pb, Bi and Sn. Two types of electrolytes were selected: Na(3)AlF(6) -AlF(3) - BaCl(2) - NaCl and Li(3)AlF(3) - BaF(2). We show that some of these combinations allowed efficient separation of individual liquid layers. The cells exhibited expected voltages, relatively high current densities and could be charged and discharged several times. The capacities were relatively low (120 mAh in the case of Al-Pb system), mostly due to unoptimised cell construction. Improvements in various directions are possible, especially by hermetically sealing the cells thus preventing salt evaporation. Similarly, solubility of aluminium in alloys can be increased by optimising the composition of positive electrode. PMID:26680707
Biocompatibility of beta-stabilizing elements of titanium alloys.
Eisenbarth, E; Velten, D; Müller, M; Thull, R; Breme, J
In comparison to the presently used alpha + beta titanium alloys for biomedical applications, beta-titanium alloys have many advantageous mechanical properties, such as an improved wear resistance, a high elasticity and an excellent cold and hot formability. This will promote their future increased application as materials for orthopaedic joint replacements. Not all elements with beta-stabilizing properties in titanium alloys are suitable for biomaterial applications-corrosion and wear processes cause a release of these alloying elements to the surrounding tissue. In this investigation, the biocompability of alloying elements for beta- and near beta-titanium alloys was tested in order to estimate their suitability for biomaterial components. Titanium (grade 2) and the implant steel X2CrNiMo18153 (AISI 316 L) were tested as reference materials. The investigation included the corrosion properties of the elements, proliferation, mitochondrial activity, cell morphology and the size of MC3T3-E1 cells and GM7373 cells after 7 days incubation in direct contact with polished slices of the metals. The statistical significance was considered by Weir-test and Lord-test (alpha = 0.05). The biocompatibility range of the investigated metals is (decreasing biocompatibility): niobium-tantalum, titanium, zirconium-aluminium-316 L-molybdenum. PMID:15147816
Corrosion Behaviour of A380 Aluminiun Alloy by Semi-Solid Rheocasting
Forn, A.; Ruperez, E.; Baile, M. T.; Campillo, M.; Menargues, S.; Espinosa, I.
A comparative study was performed on the corrosion behavior of a component of A380 aluminium alloy obtained by Semi-Solid Rheocasting (SSR). The effect of heat treatments T5 and T6 on corrosion resistance was compared with components without heat treatment by SSR processes. Corrosion studies were performed using an acetic acid salt spray test, impedance measurements and polarization curves using a 3,5%Na Cl test solution. The corrosion progress is described by micrographic analysis.
The precipitation of potassium aluminium sulphate from aqueous solution
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Mullin, J. W.; Žáček, S.
A precipitation study has been made with potassium aluminium sulphate (potash alum) produced by mixing aqueous solutions of its constituent salts. Rates of nucleation, as indicated by the induction period, were measured for both agitated and non-agitated solutions over the temperature range 15-35°C. Nucleation rates increase with increases in agitation, temperature and supersaturation, but the latter has the dominant effect, as predicted by classical nucleation theory. The temperature-dependence of the interfacial tension is evaluated.
Smirnov, O E; Kosyan, A M; Kosyk, O I; Taran, N Yu
Buckwheat genus (Fagopyrum Mill.) is one of the aluminium tolerant taxonomic units of plants. The aim of the study was an evaluation of the aluminium (50 μM effect on phenolic accumulation in various parts of buckwheat plants (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench). Detection of increasing of total phenolic content, changes in flavonoid and anthocyanin content and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase activity (PAL) were revealed over a period of 10 days of exposure to aluminium. The most significant effects of aluminium treatment on phenolic compounds accumulation were total phenolic content increasing (by 27.2%) and PAL activity rising by 2.5 times observed in leaves tissues. Received data could be helpful to understand the aluminium tolerance principles and relationships of phenolic compounds to aluminium phytotoxicity. PMID:27025067
Aluminium in food and daily dietary intake assessment from 15 food groups in Zhejiang Province, China.
Zhang, Hexiang; Tang, Jun; Huang, Lichun; Shen, Xianghong; Zhang, Ronghua; Chen, Jiang
Aluminium was measured in 2580 samples of 15 food groups and dietary exposure was estimated. Samples were purchased and analysed during 2010 to 2014. High aluminium levels were found in jellyfish (mean 4862 mg/kg), laver (mean 455.2 mg/kg) and fried twisted cruller (mean 392.4 mg/kg). Dietary exposure to aluminium was estimated for Zhejiang residents. The average dietary exposure to aluminium via 15 food groups in Zhejiang Province was 1.15 mg/kg bw/week, which is below the provisional tolerable weekly intake of 2 mg/kg bw /week. Jellyfish is the main Al contributor, providing 37.6% of the daily intake via these 15 food groups. This study provided new information on aluminium levels and assessment of aluminium (Al) dietary exposure in Zhejiang Province of China. PMID:26727195
Centrifugal Casting Features/Metallurgical Characterization of Aluminum Alloys
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Chirita, G.; Stefanescu, I.; Soares, D.; Cruz, D.; Silva, F. S.
This paper deals with the study of centrifugal effects on aluminium castings under high G values. Most of the studies in this domain (FGMs obtained by centrifugal casting) deal with functionally graded composites reinforced with a solid phase such as silicon particles or others. However, in this study it will be shown that unreinforced aluminium alloys may be significantly influenced by the centrifugal effect and that functionally graded castings are also obtained. It has been observed that the centrifugal effect may increase in some alloys, depending on the relative position in the castings, the rupture strength by approx. 50%, and rupture strain by about 300%, as compared to the gravity casting technique. The Young's modulus may also increase by about 20%. It has also been reported that in vertical centrifugal castings there are mainly three aspects that affect the components thus obtained, namely: fluid dynamics; vibration (inherent to the system); and centrifugal force. These features have a different effect on the castings depending on the aluminium alloy. In this paper, an analysis of the most important effects of the centrifugal casting process on metallurgical features is conducted. A solidification characterization at several points along the mould will be made in order to have an accurate idea of both the fluid dynamics inside the mould during the casting and the solidification behavior in different parts of the component. These two analyses will be related to the metallurgical properties (phase distribution; SDAS; eutectic silicon content and shape, pores density and shape) along the component and mainly along the direction of the centrifugal pressure. A comparison between castings obtained by both centrifugal casting technique and gravity casting technique is made for reference (gravity casting).
Aluminium localization in root tips of the aluminium-accumulating plant species buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench).
Klug, Benjamin; Specht, André; Horst, Walter J
Aluminium (Al) uptake and transport in the root tip of buckwheat is not yet completely understood. For localization of Al in root tips, fluorescent dyes and laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) were compared. The staining of Al with morin is an appropriate means to study qualitatively the radial distribution along the root tip axis of Al which is complexed by oxalate and citrate in buckwheat roots. The results compare well with the distribution of total Al determined by LA-ICP-MS which could be reliably calibrated to compare with Al contents by conventional total Al determination using graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry. The Al localization in root cross-sections along the root tip showed that in buckwheat Al is highly mobile in the radial direction. The root apex predominantly accumulated Al in the cortex. The subapical root section showed a homogenous Al distribution across the whole section. In the following root section Al was located particularly in the pericycle and the xylem parenchyma cells. With further increasing distance from the root apex Al could be detected only in individual xylem vessels. The results support the view that the 10 mm apical root tip is the main site of Al uptake into the symplast of the cortex, while the subapical 10-20 mm zone is the main site of xylem loading through the pericycle and xylem parenchyma cells. Progress in the better molecular understanding of Al transport in buckwheat will depend on the consideration of the tissue specificity of Al transport and complexation. PMID:21831842
Pulse electrodeposition of adherent nickel coatings onto anodized aluminium surfaces
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Frantz, Cédric; Vichery, Charlotte; Zechner, Johannes; Frey, Damian; Bürki, Gerhard; Cebeci, Halil; Michler, Johann; Philippe, Laetitia
Aluminium is one of the mostly used elements in the industry because of its abundance and low weight. However, the deposition of a metallic coating requires performing the so-called zincate pre-treatment in order to allow the formation of inter-metallic bonds and thereby achieving sufficient adherence. In this work, porous anodic aluminium oxide (AAO) is used as an anchoring intermediate layer for nickel coatings. AAO is grown anodically in sulfuric acid and nickel coatings are deposited by potentiostatic reverse pulse electrodeposition onto as-anodized aluminium surfaces. The electrodeposition of nickel is initiated onto the electrochemically thinned barrier layer of AAO and pursued until the complete covering of the oxide. The electrochemical behavior of Watts and sulfamate baths is investigated by cyclic voltammetry for different barrier layer thickness, allowing to validate the thinning conditions and to determine the appropriate deposition potential of nickel. GD-OES measurements show that low duty cycles are necessary to achieve high filling ratio of the AAO. SEM micrographs show that a smooth uniform coating is obtained when nickel is deposited in presence of additives.
Modelling of detonation cellular structure in aluminium suspensions
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Briand, A.; Veyssiere, B.; Khasainov, B. A.
Heterogeneous detonations involving aluminium suspensions have been studied for many years for industrial safety policies, and for military and propulsion applications. Owing to their weak detonability and to the lack of available experimental results on the detonation cellular structure, numerical simulations provide a convenient way to improve the knowledge of such detonations. One major difficulty arising in numerical study of heterogeneous detonations involving suspensions of aluminium particles in oxidizing atmospheres is the modelling of aluminium combustion. Our previous two-step model provided results on the effect on the detonation cellular structure of particle diameter and characteristic chemical lengths. In this study, a hybrid model is incorporated in the numerical code EFAE, combining both kinetic and diffusion regimes in parallel. This more realistic model provides good agreement with the previous two-step model and confirms the correlations found between the detonation cell width, and particle diameter and characteristic lengths. Moreover, the linear dependence found between the detonation cell width and the induction length remains valid with the hybrid model.
Control of Microthrix parvicella by aluminium salts addition.
Durban, N; Juzan, L; Krier, J; Gillot, S
Aluminium and iron chloride were added to a biological nutrient removal pilot plant (1,500 population equivalent) treating urban wastewater to investigate the control of Microthrix parvicella bulking and foaming by metallic salts. Monitoring plant performance over two 6-month periods showed a slight impact on the removal efficiencies. Addition of metallic salts (Me; aluminium or aluminium + iron) at a concentration of 41 mmol Me(kg MLSS·d) (MLSS: mixed liquor suspended solids) over 70 days allowed a stabilization of the diluted sludge volume index (DSVI), whereas higher dosages (94 mmol Me(kg MLSS·d) over 35 days or 137 mmol Me(kg MLSS·d) over 14 days induced a significant improvement of the settling conditions. Microscopic observations showed a compaction of biological aggregates with an embedding of filamentous bacteria into the flocs that is not specific to M. parvicella as bacteria from phylum Chloroflexi are embedded too. The quantitative polymerase chain reaction targeting M. parvicella further indicated a possible growth limitation in addition to the flocculation impact at the high dosages of metallic salts investigated. DSVI appeared to be correlated with the relative abundance of M. parvicella. PMID:26819398
Comparison of the x-ray attenuation properties of breast calcifications, aluminium, hydroxyapatite and calcium oxalate
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Warren, L. M.; Mackenzie, A.; Dance, D. R.; Young, K. C.
Aluminium is often used as a substitute material for calcifications in phantom measurements in mammography. Additionally, calcium oxalate, hydroxyapatite and aluminium are used in simulation studies. This assumes that these materials have similar attenuation properties to calcification, and this assumption is examined in this work. Sliced mastectomy samples containing calcification were imaged at ×5 magnification using a digital specimen cabinet. Images of the individual calcifications were extracted, and the diameter and contrast of each calculated. The thicknesses of aluminium required to achieve the same contrast as each calcification when imaged under the same conditions were calculated using measurements of the contrast of aluminium foils. As hydroxyapatite and calcium oxalate are also used to simulate calcifications, the equivalent aluminium thicknesses of these materials were also calculated using tabulated attenuation coefficients. On average the equivalent aluminium thickness was 0.85 times the calcification diameter. For calcium oxalate and hydroxyapatite, the equivalent aluminium thicknesses were 1.01 and 2.19 times the thickness of these materials respectively. Aluminium and calcium oxalate are suitable substitute materials for calcifications. Hydroxyapatite is much more attenuating than the calcifications and aluminium. Using solid hydroxyapatite as a substitute for calcification of the same size would lead to excessive contrast in the mammographic image.
Comparison of the x-ray attenuation properties of breast calcifications, aluminium, hydroxyapatite and calcium oxalate.
Warren, L M; Mackenzie, A; Dance, D R; Young, K C
Aluminium is often used as a substitute material for calcifications in phantom measurements in mammography. Additionally, calcium oxalate, hydroxyapatite and aluminium are used in simulation studies. This assumes that these materials have similar attenuation properties to calcification, and this assumption is examined in this work. Sliced mastectomy samples containing calcification were imaged at ×5 magnification using a digital specimen cabinet. Images of the individual calcifications were extracted, and the diameter and contrast of each calculated. The thicknesses of aluminium required to achieve the same contrast as each calcification when imaged under the same conditions were calculated using measurements of the contrast of aluminium foils. As hydroxyapatite and calcium oxalate are also used to simulate calcifications, the equivalent aluminium thicknesses of these materials were also calculated using tabulated attenuation coefficients. On average the equivalent aluminium thickness was 0.85 times the calcification diameter. For calcium oxalate and hydroxyapatite, the equivalent aluminium thicknesses were 1.01 and 2.19 times the thickness of these materials respectively. Aluminium and calcium oxalate are suitable substitute materials for calcifications. Hydroxyapatite is much more attenuating than the calcifications and aluminium. Using solid hydroxyapatite as a substitute for calcification of the same size would lead to excessive contrast in the mammographic image. PMID:23470559
Dietary Exposure to Aluminium and Health Risk Assessment in the Residents of Shenzhen, China
Yang, Mei; Jiang, Lixin; Huang, Huiping; Zeng, Shengbo; Qiu, Fen; Yu, Miao; Li, Xiaorong; Wei, Sheng
Although there are great changes of dietary in the past few decades in China, few are known about the aluminium exposure in Chinese diet. The aim of this study is to systematically evaluate the dietary aluminium intake level in residents of Shenzhen, China. A total of 853 persons from 244 household were investigated their diet by three days food records. Finally, 149 kinds of foods in 17 food groups were selected to be the most consumed foods. From them, 1399 food samples were collected from market to test aluminium concentration. High aluminium levels were found in jellyfish (median, 527.5 mg/kg), fried twisted cruller (median, 466.0 mg/kg), shell (median, 107.1 mg/kg). The Shenzhen residents' average dietary aluminium exposure was estimated at 1.263 mg/kg bw/week which is lower than the PTWI (provisional tolerable weekly intake). But 0–2 and 3–13 age groups have the highest aluminium intake exceeding the PTWI (3.356 mg/kg bw/week and 3.248 mg/kg bw/week) than other age groups. And the main dietary aluminium exposure sources are fried twisted cruller, leaf vegetables and bean products. Our study suggested that even three decades rapid economy development, children in Shenzhen still have high dietary aluminium exposure risk. How to control high dietary aluminium exposure still is a great public health challenge in Shenzhen, China. PMID:24594670
Neuroprotective effect of Allium cepa L. in aluminium chloride induced neurotoxicity.
Singh, Tanveer; Goel, Rajesh Kumar
The present study was envisaged to investigate the neuroprotective potential of Allium cepa (A. cepa) in aluminium chloride induced neurotoxicity. Aluminium chloride (50 mg/kg/day) was administered orally in mice supplemented with different doses of A. cepa hydroethanolic extract for a period of 60 days. Various behavioural, biochemical and histopathological parameters were estimated in aluminium exposed animals. Chronic aluminium administration resulted in significant motor incoordination and memory deficits, which were also endorsed biochemically as there was increased oxidative stress as well as elevated acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and aluminium levels in the brain. Supplementation with A. cepa in aluminium exposed animals significantly improved muscle coordination and memory deficits as well as reduced oxidative stress, AChE and decreased abnormal aluminium deposition in the brain. Histopathologically, there was marked deterioration visualized as decreased vacuolated cytoplasm as well as decreased pyramidal cells in the hippocampal area of mice brain which were found to be reversed with A. cepa supplementation. Administration of BADGE (PPARγ antagonist) in aluminium exposed animals reversed the neuroprotective potential of A. cepa as assessed with various behavioural, biochemical, neurochemical and histopathological estimations. In conclusion, finding of this study suggested significant neuroprotective potential of A. cepa in aluminium induced neurotoxicity. Further, the role of PPARγ receptor agonism has also been suggested as a putative neuroprotective mechanism of A. cepa, which needs further studies for confirmation. PMID:25940660
Do aluminium-based phosphate binders continue to have a role in contemporary nephrology practice?
Background Aluminium-containing phosphate binders have long been used for treatment of hyperphosphatemia in dialysis patients. Their safety became controversial in the early 1980's after reports of aluminium related neurological and bone disease began to appear. Available historical evidence however, suggests that neurological toxicity may have primarily been caused by excessive exposure to aluminium in dialysis fluid, rather than aluminium-containing oral phosphate binders. Limited evidence suggests that aluminium bone disease may also be on the decline in the era of aluminium removal from dialysis fluid, even with continued use of aluminium binders. Discussion The K/DOQI and KDIGO guidelines both suggest avoiding aluminium-containing binders. These guidelines will tend to promote the use of the newer, more expensive binders (lanthanum, sevelamer), which have limited evidence for benefit and, like aluminium, limited long-term safety data. Treating hyperphosphatemia in dialysis patients continues to represent a major challenge, and there is a large body of evidence linking serum phosphate concentrations with mortality. Most nephrologists agree that phosphate binders have the potential to meaningfully reduce mortality in dialysis patients. Aluminium is one of the cheapest, most effective and well tolerated of the class, however there are no prospective or randomised trials examining the efficacy and safety of aluminium as a binder. Aluminium continues to be used as a binder in Australia as well as some other countries, despite concern about the potential for toxicity. There are some data from selected case series that aluminium bone disease may be declining in the era of reduced aluminium content in dialysis fluid, due to rigorous water testing. Summary This paper seeks to revisit the contemporary evidence for the safety record of aluminium-containing binders in dialysis patients. It puts their use into the context of the newer, more expensive binders and increasing
Microstructure and wear resistance of Al-SiC composites coatings on ZE41 magnesium alloy
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Rodrigo, P.; Campo, M.; Torres, B.; Escalera, M. D.; Otero, E.; Rams, J.
Al and Al-SiC composites coatings were prepared by oxyacetylene flame spraying on ZE41 magnesium alloy substrates. Coatings with controlled reinforcement rate of up to 23 vol.% were obtained by spraying mixtures containing aluminium powder with up to 50 vol.% SiC particles. The coatings were sprayed on the magnesium alloy with minor degradation of its microstructure or mechanical properties. The coatings were compacted to improve their microstructure and protective behaviour. The wear behaviour of these coatings has been tested using the pin-on-disk technique and the reinforced coatings provided 85% more wear resistance than uncoated ZE41 and 400% more than pure Al coatings.
Caracterisation rheologique des gelees semi-solides des alliages aluminium-silicium renforces
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Azzi, Lhoucine
Semi-solid processing is an attractive alternative to replace the traditional methods of forming materials. To be effective, processing in the semi-solid state must be carried out on alloys with a microstructure whose primary phase is globular. Such structures, commonly called semi-solid slurries, are obtained by mixing of the primary phase during solidification. The knowledge of the rheological properties of the semi-solid slurries is of primary importance for process modeling. Various approaches, some of them reviewed in this work, have been proposed to describe such properties. The main goal of our research is to contribute to the better understanding of the mechanisms involved during semi-solid processing of alloys and composites. A close attention is paid to a new class of aluminium based hybrid composites reinforced by graphite and alumina (Al2O3) or silicon-carbide (SiC), known as GrA-NiRTM. The rheological properties of the semi-solid slurries under investigation were evaluated using two simple techniques of viscosimetry. A rotating spindle viscometer was used to assess the viscosity of the slurries in the liquid and the semi-solid state under various conditions of solidification and shearing rates. The spindle geometries were chosen in order to assure a good quality of mixing of the silicon-carbide-graphite suspension. Apparent viscosities were measured in continuous cooling conditions, for isothermal conditions with different shear rates, for isothermal conditions with a linear increase and step changes in shear rates in the semi-solid temperature range. These experiments allowed us to establish the relationships between the viscosity and the solid fraction for different shear rates. The rheological behaviour of partially remelted alloys and composites was also evaluated using a parallel plate viscometer. Specimen with dendritic and globular structures were deformed at different solid fractions and shear rates. The viscosity, at low shear rates, was
Interfacial and Mechanical Behavior of AA5456 Filling Friction-Stir-Welded Lap Joints Using Similar and Dissimilar Pins
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Behmand, Saleh Alaei; Mirsalehi, Seyyed Ehsan; Omidvar, Hamid; Safarkhanian, Mohammad Ali
In this article, filling friction stir welding (FFSW) of the remaining exit holes of AA5456 alloy friction-stir-welded lap joints was studied. For this purpose, the influences of different rotating speeds, holding times, and pin materials, AA5456 and AA2024, on the metallurgical structure and joint strength were investigated. The observations showed that defect-free lap joints are successfully obtainable by this method using similar and dissimilar consumable pins. The results indicated that the higher rotating speed and holding time adversely affect the weld performance. The best result was achieved for 30 seconds holding time, 500 rpm rotating speed, and AA2024 consumable pin. In this condition, a lap shear strength of 10 pct higher than that of the nonfilled joint, equivalent to about 94 pct of the original defect-free FSW joint, was obtained, whereas the GTAW filled joint showed only approximately 87 pct of the continuous FSW joint strength.
Hydroxyapatite microparticles as feedback-active reservoirs of corrosion inhibitors.
Snihirova, D; Lamaka, S V; Taryba, M; Salak, A N; Kallip, S; Zheludkevich, M L; Ferreira, M G S; Montemor, M F
This work contributes to the development of new feedback-active anticorrosion systems. Inhibitor-doped hydroxyapatite microparticles (HAP) are used as reservoirs, storing corrosion inhibitor to be released on demand. Release of the entrapped inhibitor is triggered by redox reactions associated with the corrosion process. HAP were used as reservoirs for several inhibiting species: cerium(III), lanthanum(III), salicylaldoxime, and 8-hydroxyquinoline. These species are effective corrosion inhibitors for a 2024 aluminum alloy (AA2024), used here as a model metallic substrate. Dissolution of the microparticles and release of the inhibitor are triggered by local acidification resulting from the anodic half-reaction during corrosion of AA2024. Calculated values and experimentally measured local acidification over the aluminum anode (down to pH = 3.65) are presented. The anticorrosion properties of inhibitor-doped HAP were assessed using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The microparticles impregnated with the corrosion inhibitors were introduced into a hybrid silica-zirconia sol-gel film, acting as a thin protective coating for AA2024, an alloy used for aeronautical applications. The protective properties of the sol-gel films were improved by the addition of HAP, proving their applicability as submicrometer-sized reservoirs of corrosion inhibitors for active anticorrosion coatings. PMID:20942404
Alloy softening in binary molybdenum alloys
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Stephens, J. R.; Witzke, W. R.
An investigation was conducted to determine the effects of alloy additions of Hf, Ta, W, Re, Os, Ir, and Pt on the hardness of Mo. Special emphasis was placed on alloy softening in these binary Mo alloys. Results showed that alloy softening was produced by those elements having an excess of s+d electrons compared to Mo, while those elements having an equal number or fewer s+d electrons than Mo failed to produce alloy softening. Alloy softening and hardening can be correlated with the difference in number of s+d electrons of the solute element and Mo.
Sputtering deposition of aluminium molybdenum alloy thin film anodes for thin film microbatteries
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Thirumoolam, Mani Chandran; Sivaramakrishnan, Balaji; Devarajan, Mutharasu
Al5Mo thin film anodes for Li-ion batteries were prepared using DC sputtering under different conditions, the latter being specified as deposition at room temperature (S0), deposition at 300°C (S1), and deposition at room temperature followed by thermal annealing at 300°C (S2). The thin films were deposited using an aluminum target tiled with molybdenum discs at a ratio calculated based on the theoretical sputtering yields. The structural and compositional analyses performed with x-ray diffraction (XRD) and energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDX) confirmed the Al5Mo compound formation and the Al/Mo elemental ratio, respectively. The compound formation was observed to be evident only for the thin films subjected to heat treatment during or after deposition. Scanning electron micrographs reveal a higher porosity of approximately 23% for sample S0 and a lower porosity of around 18% for sample S1. The chronopotentiometry results show a higher volumetric specific capacity of approximately 197 mAh/cm3 for sample S1. Capacity increments have been observed for all samples upon charge-discharge cycles, whose values after 25 cycles for samples S0, S1, and S2 were 41.2%, 20.4%, and 21.1%, respectively. [Figure not available: see fulltext.
Effect of Test Parameters on the Friction Behaviour of Anodized Aluminium Alloy
Khalladi, A.; Elleuch, K.; De-Petris Wery, M.; Ayedi, H. F.
The tribological behaviour of anodic oxide layer formed on Al5754, used in automotive applications, was investigated against test parameters. The friction coefficient under different normal loads, sliding speeds, and oxide thicknesses was studied using a pin on disc tribometer. Results show that the increase of load and sliding speed increase the friction coefficient. The rise of contact pressure and temperature seems to cause changes in wear mechanism. Glow-discharge optical emission spectroscopy (GDOES) was used to investigate the chemical composition of the oxide layer. Morphology and composition of the wear tracks were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). On the basis of these characterization techniques, a wear mechanism was proposed. The observed mechanical properties can be related to the morphology and the chemical composition of the layer. PMID:27437452
An evaluation of the pressure proof test concept for 2024-T3 aluminium alloy sheet
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Dawicke, D. S.; Poe, C. C., Jr.; Newman, J. C.; Harris, C. E.
The concept of pressure proof testing of fuselage structures with fatigue cracks to insure structural integrity was evaluated from a fracture mechanics viewpoint. A generic analytical and experimental investigation was conducted on uniaxially loaded flat panels with crack configurations and stress levels typical of longitudinal lap splice joints in commercial transport aircraft fuselages. The results revealed that the remaining fatigue life after a proof cycle was longer than that without the proof cycle because of crack growth retardation due to increased crack closure. However, based on a crack length that is slightly less than the critical value at the maximum proof stress, the minimum assured life or proof test interval must be no more than 550 pressure cycles for a 1.33 proof factor and 1530 pressure cycles for a 1.5 proof factor to prevent in-flight failures.
Localised corrosion in aluminium alloy 2024-T3 using in situ TEM.
Malladi, Sairam; Shen, Chenggang; Xu, Qiang; de Kruijff, Tom; Yücelen, Emrah; Tichelaar, Frans; Zandbergen, Henny
An approach to carry out chemical reactions using aggressive gases in situ in a transmission electron microscope (TEM), at ambient pressures of 1.5 bar using a windowed environmental cell, called a nanoreactor, is presented here. The nanoreactor coupled with a specially developed holder with platinum tubing permits the usage of aggressive chemicals like hydrochloric acid (HCl). PMID:24127075
Optimising sulfuric acid hard coat anodising for an Al-Mg-Si wrought aluminium alloy
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Bartolo, N.; Sinagra, E.; Mallia, B.
This research evaluates the effects of sulfuric acid hard coat anodising parameters, such as acid concentration, electrolyte temperature, current density and time, on the hardness and thickness of the resultant anodised layers. A small scale anodising facility was designed and set up to enable experimental investigation of the anodising parameters. An experimental design using the Taguchi method to optimise the parameters within an established operating window was performed. Qualitative and quantitative methods of characterisation of the resultant anodised layers were carried out. The anodised layer's thickness, and morphology were determined using a light optical microscope (LOM) and field emission gun scanning electron microscope (FEG-SEM). Hardness measurements were carried out using a nano hardness tester. Correlations between the various anodising parameters and their effect on the hardness and thickness of the anodised layers were established. Careful evaluation of these effects enabled optimum parameters to be determined using the Taguchi method, which were verified experimentally. Anodised layers having hardness varying between 2.4-5.2 GPa and a thickness of between 20-80 μm were produced. The Taguchi method was shown to be applicable to anodising. This finding could facilitate on-going and future research and development of anodising, which is attracting remarkable academic and industrial interest.
Resistance Spot Weld Failure Mode and Weld Performance for Aluminium Alloys
Sun, Xin
In this chapter, we present the strength and failure modes of reactive NanoFoil® bonded joints for similar and dissimilar lightweight materials. NanoFoil® is a multi-layer foil fabricated through the growth of thousands of nanoscale layers of aluminum and nickel by vapor deposition. Initiated by an energy impulse, the like-like bonds of the atoms of each layer in the foil are exchanged for more stable unlike bonds between atoms from neighboring layers. As the atoms of each layer mix, heat is generated, creating a self-sustaining reaction traveling along the length of the foil. The instantaneous release of heat energy by this reaction is controlled by the nanolayer thickness and lay-up, such that accurate control of a highly localized heat source can be realized, allowing bonding without compromising the properties/integrities of the base materials. First, solder and braze joints for similar and dissimilar material combinations of steel, aluminum and magnesium are fabricated. Static bond strength tests under tensile shear loading condition are then performed to quantify the bond strength for different material combinations. The through-thickness microstructure changes and modifications by the bonding process are quantified using SEM. Depending on the base material combinations, it is shown that the nanofoil bond strength is comparable to those of the conventional structural adhesive bonds.
Investigations of the Electronic Properties and Surface Structures of Aluminium-Rich Quasicrystalline Alloys
Jason A. Barrow
The work presented in this dissertation has investigated three distinct areas of interest in the field of quasicrystals: bulk structure, transport properties, and electronic structure. First, they have described the results of a study which explored the fundamental interactions between the atomic species of the icosahedral Al-Pd-Mn quasicrystal. The goal of this work was to determine whether the pseudo-MacKay or Bergman type clusters have a special stability or are merely a geometric coincidence. This was carried out by using laser vaporization to produce gas-phase metal clusters, which were analyzed using time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Both the kinetic and thermodynamic stabilities of the clusters were probed. The data indicated no special stability for either pseudo-MacKay or Bergman type clusters as isolated units. This, however, is not proof that these clusters are simply a geometric coincidence. It is possible that such clusters only have stability in the framework of the bulk matrix and do not exist as isolated units. Next, they have reported their investigations of the bulk thermal transport properties of a decagonal Al-Ni-Co two dimensional quasicrystal in the temperature range 373K-873K. The properties of a sample oriented along the periodic axis and another oriented along the aperiodic axis were measured. A high degree of anisotropy was observed between the aperiodic and periodic directions. Additionally, the properties were measured for a sample miscut to an orientation 45{sup o} off-axis. The properties of the miscut sample were shown to have good agreement with a theoretical model used to describe thermal transport in metallic single crystals. This model only considers thermal transport by a free-electron gas; therefore, agreement with experimental data suggests the validity of the Drude free-electron model for the decagonal Al-Ni-Co at these temperatures. Consequently, the observed anisotropy may be adequately described using classical transport equations. Transport behavior is described in terms of charge carriers and the mean-free time between carrier collisions. It is concluded that the mean-free time is much longer in the periodic direction than in the aperiodic direction. This difference produces the observed anisotropy in thermal transport. The third study presented a detailed analysis of the reversible, sputter-induced phase transformation which occurs on the 5-fold surface of an icosahedral Al-Cu-Fe quasicrystal. Reflection high-energy electron diffraction (RHEED), x-ray photoemission spectroscopy (XPS), and ultra-violet photoemission spectroscopy (UPS) data were collected as a function of annealing temperature and were used to probe surface structure, surface composition, and electronic structure, respectively. The composition and structure of the sputtered surface are consistent with a transformation to the {beta}-Al-Cu-Fe cubic structure, and shows a sharp metallic cut-off in the spectral intensity of the electronic structure at the Fermi edge. Upon annealing the surface reverts to a quasicrystalline composition and structure. This transformation has been correlated with a reduction in the spectral intensity of the electronic structure at the Fermi level. This data clearly demonstrates that the observed reduction is intrinsic to a quasicrystalline surface. It is concluded that this is due to the opening of a pseudo-gap in the electronic density of states as the surface reverts from {beta}-Al-Cu-Fe to quasicrystalline.
Effects of breadfruit seed hull ash on the microstructures and properties of Al-Si-Fe alloy/breadfruit seed hull ash particulate composites
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Atuanya, C. U.; Ibhadode, A. O. A.; Dagwa, I. M.
The microstructures and properties of Al-Si-Fe alloy matrix composites reinforced with different weight fractions of breadfruit seed hull (husk) ash particles of size 500 nm were investigated. Six (6) different weight fractions of breadfruit seed hull ash particles were added to aluminium alloy matrix using a double stir-casting method. Microstructural analysis shows that with the increase of the reinforcement weight fraction, the matrix grain size decreases. The mechanical properties of the composites are improved over the matrix materials, except for the slightly decrease of the impact energy. Fracture surface examination indicates that there is a good interfacial bonding between the aluminium alloy matrix and the breadfruit seed hull ash particles and that fracture initiation does not occur at the particle-matrix interface. Hence, incorporation of breadfruit seed hull ash particles in aluminium matrix can lead to the production of low cost aluminium composites with improved hardness and strength. These composites can find applications in automotive components where light weight materials are required with good stiffness and strength.
The chemical transformation of copper in aluminium oxide during heating
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Wei, Yu-Ling; Wang, Hsi-Chih; Yang, Yaw-Wen; Lee, Jyh-Fu
Thermal treatment has recently been emerging as a promising environmental technology to stabilize heavy metal-containing industrial sludge. This study used x-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) to identify the species of copper contaminant contained in aluminium oxide that is one of the main compositions of sludge and soil. Results indicate that the originally loaded copper nitrate was transformed into Cu(OH)2 after its dissolution in the aluminium oxide slurry. Extended x-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) fitting indicates that the main copper species in the 105 °C dried Cu(NO3)2-loaded aluminium oxide is Cu(OH)2 which accounts for ca. 75% of the loaded copper. After thermal treatment at 500 °C for 1 h, both x-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES) and EXAFS fitting results show that CuO became the prevailing copper species (about 85%); the rest of the copper consisted of {\\sim }15{%} Cu(OH)2 and a negligible amount of Cu(NO3)2. It was found that most Cu(OH)2 and Cu(NO3)2 decomposed into CuO at 500 °C. Further increase of the heating temperature from 500 to 900 °C resulted in more decomposition of Cu(OH)2 and Cu(NO3)2; therefore CuO remained as the main copper species. However, it was suggested that about 15% of the loaded copper formed CuAl2O4 through the chemical reaction between CuO and Al2O3 at 900 °C.
Insight into the cellular fate and toxicity of aluminium adjuvants used in clinically approved human vaccinations
Mold, Matthew; Shardlow, Emma; Exley, Christopher
Aluminium adjuvants remain the most widely used and effective adjuvants in vaccination and immunotherapy. Herein, the particle size distribution (PSD) of aluminium oxyhydroxide and aluminium hydroxyphosphate adjuvants was elucidated in attempt to correlate these properties with the biological responses observed post vaccination. Heightened solubility and potentially the generation of Al3+ in the lysosomal environment were positively correlated with an increase in cell mortality in vitro, potentially generating a greater inflammatory response at the site of simulated injection. The cellular uptake of aluminium based adjuvants (ABAs) used in clinically approved vaccinations are compared to a commonly used experimental ABA, in an in vitro THP-1 cell model. Using lumogallion as a direct-fluorescent molecular probe for aluminium, complemented with transmission electron microscopy provides further insight into the morphology of internalised particulates, driven by the physicochemical variations of the ABAs investigated. We demonstrate that not all aluminium adjuvants are equal neither in terms of their physical properties nor their biological reactivity and potential toxicities both at the injection site and beyond. High loading of aluminium oxyhydroxide in the cytoplasm of THP-1 cells without immediate cytotoxicity might predispose this form of aluminium adjuvant to its subsequent transport throughout the body including access to the brain. PMID:27515230
The effect of aluminium chlorhydrate on sweat gland activity in cattle.
Rees-Jones, A M; Jenkinson, D M
Topical application of aluminium chlorhydrate had no appreciable antiperspirant action on the epitrichial glands of cattle. There was no evidence of penetration of the salt into the dermis or of any change in the morphology of the glands. It is probable that the antiperspirant activity of aluminium chlorhydrate in the human axilla, is only on the atrichial glands. PMID:632617
Insight into the cellular fate and toxicity of aluminium adjuvants used in clinically approved human vaccinations.
Mold, Matthew; Shardlow, Emma; Exley, Christopher
Aluminium adjuvants remain the most widely used and effective adjuvants in vaccination and immunotherapy. Herein, the particle size distribution (PSD) of aluminium oxyhydroxide and aluminium hydroxyphosphate adjuvants was elucidated in attempt to correlate these properties with the biological responses observed post vaccination. Heightened solubility and potentially the generation of Al(3+) in the lysosomal environment were positively correlated with an increase in cell mortality in vitro, potentially generating a greater inflammatory response at the site of simulated injection. The cellular uptake of aluminium based adjuvants (ABAs) used in clinically approved vaccinations are compared to a commonly used experimental ABA, in an in vitro THP-1 cell model. Using lumogallion as a direct-fluorescent molecular probe for aluminium, complemented with transmission electron microscopy provides further insight into the morphology of internalised particulates, driven by the physicochemical variations of the ABAs investigated. We demonstrate that not all aluminium adjuvants are equal neither in terms of their physical properties nor their biological reactivity and potential toxicities both at the injection site and beyond. High loading of aluminium oxyhydroxide in the cytoplasm of THP-1 cells without immediate cytotoxicity might predispose this form of aluminium adjuvant to its subsequent transport throughout the body including access to the brain. PMID:27515230
A cluster of equine granulomatous enteritis cases: the link with aluminium.
Fogarty, U; Perl, D; Good, P; Ensley, S; Seawright, A; Noonan, J
A cluster of 6 cases of equine granulomatous enteritis is described. Aluminium was demonstrated in the tissues and lesions of these horses and in the intimal bodies of intestinal vessels. The relationship between granulomatous lesions, aluminium, acidity and invading microorganisms, particularly parasites, is presented and discussed. PMID:9778770
Modeling of recrystallization texture of aluminium: symmetric and asymmetric rolling
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Wierzbanowski, K.; Kotra, M.; Wronski, M.; Sztwiertnia, K.; Wronski, S.; Lodini, A.
In some metallic materials the dominating recrystallization mechanism can be described by the oriented growth behaviour. Phenomenological laws state that in selected materials only these nuclei grow intensively which have a given misorientation relation with the deformed matrix. This description is frequently verified in f.c.c. metals and generally reported misorientations correspond approximately to 400 rotation around the <111> axis. Basing on the above ideas the recrystallization model, including the compromise condition, was formulated and applied to the study of recrystallization textures of rolled polycrystalline aluminium.
Compressive tensile and shear testing of melt-foamed aluminium
Von Hagen, H.; Bleck, W.
For construction purposes it is utterly important to get detailed information on the possible influence of the foam thickness on the mechanical properties and on the deformation behavior of metallic foams. The effect of compressive, tensile and shear loads on aluminium foam samples has been examined with the testing methods for sandwich material as described in German and ASTM-standards. The aim is to provide more data on these mechanical properties varying the sample density and thickness. Regarding the results the most reliable material parameters as well as steps towards a relationship between the different strength parameters can be obtained.
Mechanism of aluminium bio-mineralization in the apoferritin cavity
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Chiarpotto, M.; Ciasca, G.; Vassalli, M.; Rossi, C.; Campi, G.; Ricci, A.; Bocca, B.; Pino, A.; Alimonti, A.; De Sole, P.; Papi, M.
Many experimental evidences point out the correlation between the presence of aluminum-ferritin complex and neursopathological disorders. In these complexes, two different ranges of Aluminium (Al) atoms are usually found, i.e., just few atoms or several hundreds. Here, we investigated the in-vitro Al-apoferritin binding, with the aim to elucidate the mechanism behind the formation of Al-ferritin complexes in-vivo. To this purpose, we studied the mineralization of Al in its ionic and complexed form with citrate demonstrating that high Al levels found in clinical studies can be obtained only conveying Al by small physiological ligands.
Effects of silicon on gastrointestinal absorption of aluminium
Edwardson, J.A.; Moore, P.B.; Ferrier, I.N.; Lilley, J.S.; Newton, G.W.A.; Barker, J.; Templar, J.; Day, J.P.
The reported geographical association between Alzheimer's disease and levels of aluminium (Al) in water supplies may reflect the inverse relation between Al and silicon (Si) concentrations in water, and the potential for Si to reduce the bioavailability of the metal. The authors tested this hypothesis using isotopic [sup 26]Al tracer administered orally to five healthy volunteers in the presence and absence of Si. Dissolved Si, at a concentration found in some water supplies reduced the peak plasma [sup 26]Al concentration to 15% of the value obtained in the absence of Si. The results indicate that dissolved Si is an important factor in limiting the absorption of dietary Al.
On the Possibility of using Alluminium-Magnesium Alloys with Improved Mechanical Characteristics for Body Elements of Zenit-2S Launch Vehicle Propellant Tanks
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Sitalo, V.; Lytvyshko, T.
Yuzhnoye SDO developed several generations of launch vehicles and spacecraft that are characterized by weight perfection, optimal cost, accuracy of output geometrical characteristics, stable strength characteristics, high tightness. The main structural material of launch vehicles are thermally welded non-strengthened aluminium- magnesium alloys. The aluminium-magnesium alloys in the annealed state have insufficiently high strength characteristics. Considerable increase of yield strength of sheets and plates can be reached by cold working but in this case, plasticity reduces. An effective way to improve strength of aluminium-magnesium alloys is their alloying with scandium. The alloying with scandium leads to modification of the structure of ingots (size reduction of cast grain) and formation of supersaturated solid solutions of scandium and aluminium during crystallization. During subsequent heatings (annealing of the ingots, heating for deformation) the solid solution disintegrates with the formation of disperse particles of Al3Sc type, that cause great strengthening of the alloy. High degree of dispersion and density of distribution in the matrix of secondary Al3Sc particles contribute to the considerable increase of the temperature of recrystallization of deformed intermediate products and to the formation of stable non-recrystallized structure. The alloying of alluminium-magnesium alloys with scandium increases their strength and operational characteristics, preserves their technological and corrosion properties, improves weldability. The alloys can be used within the temperature limits 196-/+150 0C. The experimental structures of propellant tanks made of alluminium-magnesium alloys with scandium have been manufactured and tested. It was ascertained that the propellant tanks have higher margin of safety during loading with internal pressure and higher stability factor of the shrouds during loading with axial compression force which is caused by higher value
Influence of particle size on Cutting Forces and Surface Roughness in Machining of B4Cp - 6061 Aluminium Matrix Composites
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Hiremath, Vijaykumar; Badiger, Pradeep; Auradi, V.; Dundur, S. T.; Kori, S. A.
Amongst advanced materials, metal matrix composites (MMC) are gaining importance as materials for structural applications in particular, particulate reinforced aluminium MMCs have received considerable attention due to their superior properties such as high strength to weight ratio, excellent low-temperature performance, high wear resistance, high thermal conductivity. The present study aims at studying and comparing the machinability aspects of B4Cp reinforced 6061Al alloy metal matrix composites reinforced with 37μm and 88μm particulates produced by stir casting method. The micro structural characterization of the prepared composites is done using Scanning Electron Microscopy equipped with EDX analysis (Hitachi Su-1500 model) to identify morphology and distribution of B4C particles in the 6061Al matrix. The specimens are turned on a conventional lathe machine using a Polly crystalline Diamond (PCD) tool to study the effect of particle size on the cutting forces and the surface roughness under varying machinability parameters viz., Cutting speed (29-45 m/min.), Feed rate (0.11-0.33 mm/rev.) and depth of cut (0.5-1mm). Results of micro structural characterization revealed fairly uniform distribution of B4C particles (in both cases i.e., 37μm and 88μm) in 6061Al matrix. The surface roughness of the composite is influenced by cutting speed. The feed rate and depth of cut have a negative influence on surface roughness. The cutting forces decreased with increase in cutting speed whereas cutting forces increased with increase in feed and depth of cut. Higher cutting forces are noticed while machining Al6061 base alloy compared to reinforced composites. Surface finish is high during turning of the 6061Al base alloy and surface roughness is high with 88μm size particle reinforced composites. As the particle size increases Surface roughness also increases.
Properties- and applications of quasicrystals and complex metallic alloys.
Dubois, Jean-Marie
This article aims at an account of what is known about the potential for applications of quasicrystals and related compounds, the so-called family of Complex Metallic Alloys (CMAs‡). Attention is focused at aluminium-based CMAs, which comprise a large number of crystalline compounds and quasicrystals made of aluminium alloyed with transition metals (like Fe or Cu) or normal metals like Mg. Depending on composition, the structural complexity varies from a few atoms per unit cell up to thousands of atoms. Quasicrystals appear then as CMAs of ultimate complexity and exhibit a lattice that shows no periodicity anymore in the usual 3-dimensional space. Properties change dramatically with lattice complexity and turn the metal-type behaviour of simple Al-based crystals into a far more complex behaviour, with a fingerprint of semi-conductors that may be exploited in various applications, potential or realised. An account of the ones known to the author is given in the light of the relevant properties, namely light absorption, reduced adhesion and friction, heat insulation, reinforcement of composites for mechanical devices, and few more exotic ones. The role played by the search for applications of quasicrystals in the development of the field is briefly addressed in the concluding section. PMID:22933085
Multiscale modelling of gallium induced embrittlement in aluminium
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Bhogireddy, Venkata Sai Pavan Kumar; Todorova, Mira; Spatschek, Robert; Neugebauer, Jörg
Liquid metal embrittlement is a degradation phenomenon in which a solid metal undergoes brittle failure when it is stressed while in contact with a liquid metal. The transition from ductile to brittle metal failure manifests itself by rapid crack propagations which reduces the elongation to failure ratio. Combining density functional theory calculations with continuum methods, we study the liquid metal embrittlement of aluminium in contact with gallium. Comparing ab initio calculated energies for a Σ 3 and a Σ 5 Al grain boundary and their corresponding surface energies in the presence and absence of Ga, we identify critical Ga concentrations which result in a weakening of the mechanical strength of aluminium. Parametrising the DFT results in continuum model we obtain the concentration as a function of the strain in the system. In a final step we extend this approach and compute the stress field induced by cracks in bulk and at grain boundaries. The stress field explains the large segregation of gallium atoms at the crack tip and the crack tip's subsequent propagation.
Catalytic spectrophotometric determination of trace aluminium with indigo carmine
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Zheng, Huai-Li; Xiong, Wen-Qiang; Gong, Ying-Kun; Peng, De-Jun; Li, Ling-Chun
A new catalytic spectrophotometric method is described for the determination of trace amounts of Al(III). The methods based on catalytic action of Al(III) on the oxidation of indigo carmine (IC) by ammonium persulfate in hexamethylene tetramine-hydrochloric acid ((CH 2) 6N 4-HCl) buffer medium (pH 5.4) and in the presence of surfactant—TritonX-100. The effects of some factors on the reaction speed were investigated. Aluminium concentration is linear for 0-1.2 × 10 -7 g/ml in this method. The detection limit of the proposed method is 1.96 × 10 -8 g/ml. Most of the foreign ions except for Cu(II), Fe(III) do not interfere with the determination, and the interference of Cu(II) and Fe(III) in this method can be removed by extraction with sodium diethyldithiocarbamate-carbon tetrachloride (DDTC-CCl 4). This system is a quasi-zero-order reaction for Al(III), but it is a quasi-first-order reaction for IC. The apparent rate constant is 2.62 × 10 -5 s -1 and the apparent activation energy is 6.60 kJ/mol in the system. The proposed method was applied to the determination of trace aluminium(III) in real samples with satisfactory results.
Riley, William D.; Brown, Jr., Robert D.
To identify the composition of a metal alloy, sparks generated from the alloy are optically observed and spectrographically analyzed. The spectrographic data, in the form of a full-spectrum plot of intensity versus wavelength, provide the "signature" of the metal alloy. This signature can be compared with similar plots for alloys of known composition to establish the unknown composition by a positive match with a known alloy. An alternative method is to form intensity ratios for pairs of predetermined wavelengths within the observed spectrum and to then compare the values of such ratios with similar values for known alloy compositions, thereby to positively identify the unknown alloy composition.
Nouveau procédé de synthèse du nitrure d'aluminium
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Haussonne, J. M.; Lostec, J.; Bertot, J. P.; Lostec, L.; Sadou, S.
Thermodynamic considerations show that, even at room temperature, pure aluminium can react with nitrogen to form the aluminium nitride AlN. However, pure aluminium does not exist: it is always surrounded by an alumina shell that protects the metal from further reactions. Furthermore, in the hypothesis where one has been able to make aluminium react with nitrogen, an aluminium nitride shell will protect as well the metal core from further oxidation. Prompted by the Lanxide process allowing to form Al/Al2O3 composites, we have mixed aluminium powders with lithium salts, and easily synthesized pure aluminium nitride by heating the mixed powders in nitrogen at temperatures ranging from 800 to 1200 °C. Starting from aluminium powders with a specific area ranging from 0.3 to 4 m^2/g, we have been able to produce aluminium nitride with specific are ranging from 1 to 20 m^2/g. Mixed with Y203-CaO and sintered at 1720 °C in N2, we obtained AIN ceramics owning 92% density and 160 W/m.K thermal conductivity. Les calculs thermodynamiques montrent que, même à température ambiante, l'aluminium pur peut réagir avec l'azote pour former le nitrure d'aluminium AlN. Cependant, la poudre d'aluminium pur n'existe pas : ses grains sont toujours entourés d'une couche d'alumine protectrice. De plus, dans l'hypothèse où l'on pourrait faire réagir de la poudre d'aluminium avec de l'azote, il se formerait de même une couche protectrice de nitrure d'aluminium qui empêcherait le centre des grains de réagir. S'inspirant du "procédé Lanxide" permettant de réaliser des composites Al/Al2O3, nous avons mélangé de la poudre d'aluminium avec des sels de lithium, et synthétisé du nitrure d'aluminium pur en portant ce mélange dans l'azote à une température pouvant être comprise entre 800 et 1 200 °C. Utilisant des poudres d'aluminium possédant une surface spécifique comprise entre 0,3 et 4 m^2/g, nous avons obtenu une poudre de nitrure d'aluminium avec une surface sp
Effects on the nervous system among welders exposed to aluminium and manganese.
Sjögren, B; Iregren, A; Frech, W; Hagman, M; Johansson, L; Tesarz, M; Wennberg, A
OBJECTIVES--The purpose was to study the effects on the nervous system in welders exposed to aluminium and manganese. METHODS--The investigation included questionnaires on symptoms, psychological methods (simple reaction time, finger tapping speed and endurance, digit span, vocabulary, tracking, symbol digit, cylinders, olfactory threshold, Luria-Nebraska motor scale), neurophysiological methods (electroencephalography, event related auditory evoked potential (P-300), brainstem auditory evoked potential, and diadochokinesometry) and assessments of blood and urine concentrations of metals (aluminium, lead, and manganese). RESULTS--The welders exposed to aluminium (n = 38) reported more symptoms from the central nervous system than the control group (n = 39). They also had a decreased motor function in five tests. The effect was dose related in two of these five tests. The median exposure of aluminium welders was 7065 hours and they had about seven times higher concentrations of aluminium in urine than the controls. The welders exposed to manganese (n = 12) had a decreased motor function in five tests. An increased latency of event related auditory evoked potential was also found in this group. The median manganese exposure was 270 hours. These welders did not have higher concentrations of manganese in blood than the controls. CONCLUSIONS--The neurotoxic effects found in the groups of welders exposed to aluminium and manganese are probably caused by the aluminium and manganese exposure, respectively. These effects indicate a need for improvements in the work environments of these welders. PMID:8563855
Increasing aluminium concentrations in Southwest Nova Scotia Canada rivers from 1980 to present
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Minichiello, Jeff; Sterling, Shannon; Ambrose, Sarah; Clair, Tom
Elevated aluminum levels in rivers is known to be toxic for aquatic species, in particular Salmo salar; however it was only recently aluminium has been identified as a potential threat to Salmo salar populations in South Western Nova Scotia, Canada (SWNS) (Dennis and Clair 2012). Previously, it was thought SWNS rivers contained enough DOC to render the aluminium in rivers inactive. A key remaining question is whether aluminium levels are declining following atmospheric pollution reductions. Here we make a first assessment of long term (1980-2011) aluminium concentration trends in three watersheds located in SWNS, as measured by weekly grab samples. Our results show that total aluminium levels have significantly increased from 1980-2011 in all three sites. Estimates of ionic aluminium levels indicate that the ionic aluminum concentration frequently exceeds the threshold for the level of aquatic health determined by the European Inland Fisheries Advisory Commission (Howells et al. 1990). Data also indicates that calcium levels have yet to recover even with declining concentrations of riverine sulfate. This new knowledge that aluminium is at toxic levels and is worsening will have implications for policy on acidification mitigation in SWNS; this is an urgent issue as the local salmon population numbers currently are declining to near extirpation levels.
Factors affecting the aluminium content of human femoral head and neck.
Zioła-Frankowska, Anetta; Dąbrowski, Mikołaj; Kubaszewski, Łukasz; Rogala, Piotr; Frankowski, Marcin
Tissues for the study were obtained intraoperatively during hip replacement procedures from 96 patients. In all the cases, the indication for this treatment was primary or secondary degenerative changes in the hip joint. The subject of the study was the head and neck of the femur, resected in situ. Aluminium concentrations measured in femoral head and neck samples from patients aged between 25 and 91 were varied. Statistical methods were applied to determine the variations in relation to the parameters from the background survey. Significant differences in the aluminium content of femoral head samples were observed between patients under and over 60 years of age. Based on the results, it was confirmed that the aluminium accumulates in bones over a lifetime. The study showed that the content of aluminium in the head and neck of the femur depends on the factors such as: type of medicines taken, contact with chemicals at work, differences in body anatomy and sex. The study on the levels of aluminium in bones and the factors affecting its concentration is a valuable source of information for further research on the role of aluminium in bone diseases. Based on the investigations, it was found that the GF-AAS technique is the best analytical tool for routine analysis of aluminium in complex matrix samples. The use of femoral heads in the investigations was approved by the Bioethics Committee of the University of Medical Sciences in Poznań (Poland). PMID:26341598
Identification and estimation of extra-framework aluminium in acidic mazzite by diffuse reflectance spectroscopy
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Zanjanchi, M. A.; Razavi, A.
Diffuse reflectance spectroscopy has been used to investigate structural modification of mazzite zeolite subjected to calcination, acid leaching and acetylacetone treatments. Extra-framework aluminium species, formed upon expulsion of aluminium from the framework, are detected by DRS because they are involved in aluminium-oxygen charge transfer transitions. Impregnation of the calcined ammonium-exchanged and acid leached samples with ethanolic acetylacetone will convert the broadened 260-280 nm band of extra-framework aluminium with distorted symmetry to a distinct well-defined 285 nm band. The appearance of this band is due to the transformation of the aluminium atoms with a different coordination number to structures with highly ordered octahedral symmetry. Washing the acetylacetone treated samples with hot ethanol leads to extraction of some of the complexed aluminium. The presence of an extracted aluminium triacetylacetonate complex in the eluant is verified by the same spectrophotometer used in its conventional mode. This suggests that a dual DR and UV-VIS spectrophotometry is an appropriate approach to study such topics.
Aluminium adjuvants and adverse events in sub-cutaneous allergy immunotherapy
Sub-cutaneous immunotherapy is an effective treatment for allergy. It works by helping to modify or re-balance an individual's immune response to allergens and its efficacy is greatly improved by the use of adjuvants, most commonly, aluminium hydroxide. Aluminium salts have been used in allergy therapy for many decades and are assumed to be safe with few established side-effects. This assumption belies their potency as adjuvants and their potential for biological reactivity both at injection sites and elsewhere in the body. There are very few data purporting to the safety of aluminium adjuvants in allergy immunotherapy and particularly so in relation to longer term health effects. There are, if only few, published reports of adverse events following allergy immunotherapy and aluminium adjuvants are the prime suspects in the majority of such incidents. Aluminium adjuvants are clearly capable of initiating unwanted side effects in recipients of immunotherapy and while there is as yet no evidence that such are commonplace it is complacent to consider aluminium salts as harmless constituents of allergy therapies. Future research should establish the safety of the use of aluminium adjuvants in sub-cutaneous allergy immunotherapy. PMID:24444186
Effect of Fiber Surface Structure on Interfacial Reaction between Carbon Fiber and Aluminium
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Chang, Kuang-Chih; Matsugi, Kazuhiro; Sasaki, Gen; Yanagisawa, Osamu
Surface structure of carbon fiber and interfacial reaction between fiber and aluminium in carbon fiber reinforced aluminium composites were investigated by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. Low and high graphitized carbon fiber reinforced pure aluminium composites were prepared by ultrasonic liquid infiltration. Vapor grown carbon nano fiber (VGCF) reinforced pure aluminium composites were prepared by hot-pressing. Heteroatoms, which existed abundantly in the surface of low graphitized carbon fiber, caused carbon lamellar structure in the fiber surface pronounced curvature. VGCF surface structure appeared regular and linear graphitic lamellae. Low graphitized fiber reinforced pure aluminium composites revealed serious interfacial reaction produced crystalline aluminium carbides (Al4C3), compared to composites reinforced by high graphitized fiber. On the other hand, Al4C3 crystalline reactants were not found at the interface of VGCF reinforced pure aluminium composites, but formation of interlayer was observed. In order to promote Al4C3 growth, carbon fiber reinforced composites were heat-treated at 573K and 873K for 1.8ks. Al4C3 interfacial phases in low and high graphitized fiber reinforced aluminium composites grew with the rise in the temperature. The heat-treatment resulted in the formation of non-crystalline Al4C3 interlayer by energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analysis of electron microscopy. At high temperature, Al4C3 was not grew and increased merely at the interface between carbon fiber and pure aluminium matrix, and moreover, the formation of new Al4C3 crystal occurred in this interlayer.
The aluminium content of breast tissue taken from women with breast cancer.
House, Emily; Polwart, Anthony; Darbre, Philippa; Barr, Lester; Metaxas, George; Exley, Christopher
The aetiology of breast cancer is multifactorial. While there are known genetic predispositions to the disease it is probable that environmental factors are also involved. Recent research has demonstrated a regionally specific distribution of aluminium in breast tissue mastectomies while other work has suggested mechanisms whereby breast tissue aluminium might contribute towards the aetiology of breast cancer. We have looked to develop microwave digestion combined with a new form of graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry as a precise, accurate and reproducible method for the measurement of aluminium in breast tissue biopsies. We have used this method to test the thesis that there is a regional distribution of aluminium across the breast in women with breast cancer. Microwave digestion of whole breast tissue samples resulted in clear homogenous digests perfectly suitable for the determination of aluminium by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry. The instrument detection limit for the method was 0.48 μg/L. Method blanks were used to estimate background levels of contamination of 14.80 μg/L. The mean concentration of aluminium across all tissues was 0.39 μg Al/g tissue dry wt. There were no statistically significant regionally specific differences in the content of aluminium. We have developed a robust method for the precise and accurate measurement of aluminium in human breast tissue. There are very few such data currently available in the scientific literature and they will add substantially to our understanding of any putative role of aluminium in breast cancer. While we did not observe any statistically significant differences in aluminium content across the breast it has to be emphasised that herein we measured whole breast tissue and not defatted tissue where such a distribution was previously noted. We are very confident that the method developed herein could now be used to provide accurate and reproducible data on the aluminium content
Monte Carlo simulation of electron depth distribution and backscattering for carbon films deposited on aluminium as a function of incidence angle and primary energy
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Dapor, Maurizio
Carbon films are deposited on various substrates (polymers, polyester fabrics, polyester yarns, metal alloys) both for experimental and technological motivations (medical devices, biocompatible coatings, food package and so on). Computational studies of the penetration of electron beams in supported thin film of carbon are very useful in order to compare the simulated results with analytical techniques data (obtained by scanning electron microscopy and/or Auger electron spectroscopy) and investigate the film characteristics. In the present paper, the few keV electron depth distribution and backscattering coefficient for the special case of film of carbon deposited on aluminium are investigated, by a Monte Carlo simulation, as a function of the incidence angle and primary electron energy. The simulated results can be used as a way to evaluate the carbon film thickness by a set of measurements of the backscattering coefficient.
Microstructure characterization of hypereutectoid aluminium bronze composite coating
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Kucita, P.; Wang, S. C.; Li, W. S.; Cook, R. B.; Starink, M. J.
Hypereutectoid aluminium bronze coating was deposited onto an E.N. 10503 steel substrate using plasma transferred arc welding (PTA). Microstructure characterisation of the coating and a section near the steel substrate joint was carried out using SEM, EBSD, EDS in conjunction with XRD and depth-sensing nano-indentation. The constituent phases in the coating were identified as: martensitic Cu3Al β1' phase, solid solution of Al in Cu α phase and the intermetallic Fe3Al κ1 phase. The region near the steel substrate was characterised by high hardness, large grains and presence of Cu precipitates. No cracks were observed in this region. The coating has high hardness of 4.9GPa and Young's modulus of 121.7GPa. This is attributed to homogeneous distribution of sub microns size Fe3Al intermetallic phase. The implications of the coating to the engineering application of sheet metal forming are discussed.
Nanosecond laser texturing of aluminium for control of wettability
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Sharp, Martin C.; Rosowski, Adam P.; French, Paul W.
There is increasing interest in the use of lasers to modify the wettability of surfaces. Here we report on the use of a 20W nS pulsed IR fibre laser to create strong hydrophobicity on the surface of aluminium sheets. This is unexpected, hydrophobicity is usually associated solely with femto- or pico- second laser processing. At a 20W average power level the area coverage rate is too small for many industrial applications. Further trials using a 800W DPSS laser are described and the ability of this system to change surface wettability at a much higher production rate are indicated. There is little reported literature on surface texturing at higher average power levels. Indications of the productivity, or surface coverage rate, are given.
On the compression of Aluminium foam structures under shock
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Townsend, David; Bourne, Neil K.; Appleby-Thomas, G. J.; Hameed, A.; Wood, D.
Foam-based materials have an important role as both blast and impact mitigators, with their extended sub-surface structures providing multiple redundant routes for load management and distribution in the event of failure. In order to further elucidate underlying stress management mechanisms at high strain-rates, here, a series of Aluminium foams manufactured via rapid prototyping techniques were investigated via the plate-impact technique. These experiments allowed the material to be loaded under a quasi one-dimensional state of strain. The nature of pore collapse was monitored via manganin stress gauges at the target rear surface, with resultant data related back to changes in microstructure via microstructural and topographical analysis of both un-impacted and recovered target material.
Neutron irradiation influence on magnesium aluminium spinel inversion
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Skvortsova, V.; Mironova-Ulmane, N.; Ulmanis, U.
Grown by the Verneuil method MgO · nAl 2O 3 single crystals and natural spinel crystal have been studied using X-ray diffraction and photoluminescence spectra. The fast neutron irradiation of magnesium aluminium spinel leads to the lattice parameter decrease. The bond lengths of Mg-O and Al-O vary with the u-parameter and the lattice parameter. On the other hand, the bond lengths are related with the inversion parameter. Using changes of the lattice parameter during irradiation we have calculated the inversion parameter, which is 15-20%. In the luminescence spectra, the fast neutron radiation (fluence 10 16 cm -2) produces an increase in the intensity ratio of the N- to R-lines by 5-20%. Taking into account that intensity of the N-lines is closely associated with the inversion parameter, it is possible to state that the neutron irradiation causes the increasing of the spinel inversion.
Quasiparticle spin resonance and coherence in superconducting aluminium
Quay, C. H. L.; Weideneder, M.; Chiffaudel, Y.; Strunk, C.; Aprili, M.
Conventional superconductors were long thought to be spin inert; however, there is now increasing interest in both (the manipulation of) the internal spin structure of the ground-state condensate, as well as recently observed long-lived, spin-polarized excitations (quasiparticles). We demonstrate spin resonance in the quasiparticle population of a mesoscopic superconductor (aluminium) using novel on-chip microwave detection techniques. The spin decoherence time obtained (∼100 ps), and its dependence on the sample thickness are consistent with Elliott–Yafet spin–orbit scattering as the main decoherence mechanism. The striking divergence between the spin coherence time and the previously measured spin imbalance relaxation time (∼10 ns) suggests that the latter is limited instead by inelastic processes. This work stakes out new ground for the nascent field of spin-based electronics with superconductors or superconducting spintronics. PMID:26497744
Natural gas anodes for aluminium electrolysis in molten fluorides.
Haarberg, Geir Martin; Khalaghi, Babak; Mokkelbost, Tommy
Industrial primary production of aluminium has been developed and improved over more than 100 years. The molten salt electrolysis process is still suffering from low energy efficiency and considerable emissions of greenhouse gases (CO2 and PFC). A new concept has been suggested where methane is supplied through the anode so that the CO2 emissions may be reduced significantly, the PFC emissions may be eliminated and the energy consumption may decrease significantly. Porous carbon anodes made from different graphite grades were studied in controlled laboratory experiments. The anode potential, the anode carbon consumption and the level of HF gas above the electrolyte were measured during electrolysis. In some cases it was found that the methane oxidation was effectively participating in the anode process. PMID:27210046
Effect of calcium ions on agglomeration of bayer aluminium trihydroxide
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Brown, N.
Small amounts of calcium ions in caustic aluminate solution can lead to enhanced agglomeration of aluminium trihydroxide [Al(OH) 3] particles in the crystallization step of the Bayer process. The present study shows that the magnitude of the effect is strongly dependent on the nature and polycrystallinity of the Al(OH) 3 seed crystals. The more irregular and polycrystalline the seed crystals, the smaller is the optimum amount of added calcium for maximum coarsening ( ≈ 50 mg/l, expressed as CaO). While the same degree of agglomeration can be achieved using well-rounded, smooth-surfaced seed crystals of the same overall size, more calcium is required (75-100 mg/l, expressed as CaO) and the agglomerated particles formed are weaker and less resistant to size reduction on handling.
Synthesis and characterization of luminescent aluminium selenide nanocrystals
Balitskii, O.A.; Demchenko, P.Yu.; Mijowska, E.; Cendrowski, K.
Highlights: ► Synthesis procedure of size and sharp controlled Al{sub 2}Se{sub 3} nanocrystals is introduced. ► Obtained nanoparticles are highly crystalline of hexagonal wurtzite type. ► Colloidal Al{sub 2}Se{sub 3} nanocrystals are highly luminescent in the near UV spectral region. ► They can be implemented in light emitters/collectors, concurring with II–VI nanodots. -- Abstract: We propose the synthesis and characterization of colloidal aluminium selenide nanocrystals using trioctylphosphine as a solvent. The nanoparticles have several absorption bands in the spectral region 330–410 nm and are bright UV-blue luminescent, which is well demanded in light collecting and emitting devices, e.g. for tuning their spectral characteristics to higher energy solar photons.
Materials Science Constraints on the Development of Aluminium Reduction Cells
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Metson, James; McIntosh, Grant; Etzion, Ronny
The Hall-Heroult process for the production of Aluminium metal is some 125 years old. The process is energy constrained by the need to shed around half of the (electrical) energy supplied to the cell as waste heat. The molten cryolite electrolyte is sufficiently aggressive that the only reliable method of protecting the side wall of the cell is to maintain a frozen layer of electrolyte at the hot face of the sidewall. Thus the lack of a cryolite resistant sidewall is but one of several materials science constraints which still limit the energy efficiency of the process. An inert anode and non-consumable cathode are also significant challenges which limit cell life and energy efficiency. Thus there are major challenges in both materials development and new conceptual cell designs to improve the efficiency of this process.
Substructure drag effects and recrystallization textures in aluminium
Higginson, R.; Bate, P.
Many important recrystallization texture components in metals such as aluminium originate from nuclei in which the mobile high-angle boundary exists prior to, or is formed in the early stages of, annealing. Nucleation can then occur by a process known as strain-induced boundary migration (SIBM). It is possible that this process will involve several growing subgrains, and the drag from that substructure can then have a significant effect. A simple model is used to demonstrate how changes in the overall driving force for recrystallization and Zener drag can affect recrystallization textures when SIBM is involved. This is discussed in relation to experimental observations and the evidence for this process is reviewed.
Shock wave synthesis of aluminium nitride with rocksalt structure
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Keller, K.; Schlothauer, T.; Schwarz, M.; Heide, G.; Kroke, E.
The high pressure phase of aluminium nitride with rocksalt structure (rs) is a ceramic with high potential and a challenging material to investigate. The rs-AlN was synthesised and recovered by shock wave experiments using the flyer-plate method with multiple reflections at peak pressures between 15 and 43 GPa. Successful syntheses were carried out using AlN nanopowder with ambient pressure wurtzite structure (w-AlN) as starting material. The high pressure modification could, however, not be obtained when starting from submicron w-AlN. The recovery of rs-AlN is sensitive to the synthesis conditions as these influence the reconversion of rs-AlN to w-AlN.
Quasiparticle spin resonance and coherence in superconducting aluminium
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Quay, C. H. L.; Weideneder, M.; Chiffaudel, Y.; Strunk, C.; Aprili, M.
Conventional superconductors were long thought to be spin inert; however, there is now increasing interest in both (the manipulation of) the internal spin structure of the ground-state condensate, as well as recently observed long-lived, spin-polarized excitations (quasiparticles). We demonstrate spin resonance in the quasiparticle population of a mesoscopic superconductor (aluminium) using novel on-chip microwave detection techniques. The spin decoherence time obtained (~100 ps), and its dependence on the sample thickness are consistent with Elliott-Yafet spin-orbit scattering as the main decoherence mechanism. The striking divergence between the spin coherence time and the previously measured spin imbalance relaxation time (~10 ns) suggests that the latter is limited instead by inelastic processes. This work stakes out new ground for the nascent field of spin-based electronics with superconductors or superconducting spintronics.
Dynamic crushing behaviour of aluminium tubes filled with cork
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Gameiro, C. P.; Cirne, J.; Gary, G.
Cork is a natural cellular material with unique remarkable properties such as low density, great elasticity, chemical stability and resilience, no permeability to liquid and gases and resistance to wear and fire. Besides, it is ecological, hygienic, easy to maintain and a very durable material. Unfortunately, there are still application fields that have not been explored yet for the use of cork, possibly due to the fact that it is a complex cellular material, characterized by very variable mechanical properties which clearly depend on its microstructure. The fundamental aspects of the static and dynamic mechanical behaviour of natural and agglomerate cork, used alone and as filler inside a tube with small dimensions, under axial compressive loading, have already been studied by the authors. Aluminium cork-filled tubes and their empty counterparts were tested experimentally and numerically at quasi-static and dynamic strain rates from 10 - 3s - 1 to 600 s - 1. Data from the Split-Hopkinson Pressure Bar and "deconvolution" techniques were used to generate stress-strain curves for the structures composed of natural and agglomerate cork. The numerical simulations of the dynamic compression of the specimens were carried out using the finite element method software LS-DYNA^TM and showed quite good agreement with the experimental results. Hence, in this work, in order to extend the study started previously and investigate the possible advantages of cork-filling in longer tubes with a different section, the authors simulate, using the same software, the influence of the introduction of agglomerate cork in square and circular aluminium tubes with a diameter/width of 80 mm, a length of 300mm and a variable thickness. The mechanical properties of the structures composed of cork may constitute a potential for this material to be used in innovative applications related to diverse fields such as automotive, transport, ships and military applications.
Precipitation Reactions in Age-Hardenable Alloys During Laser Additive Manufacturing
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Jägle, Eric A.; Sheng, Zhendong; Wu, Liang; Lu, Lin; Risse, Jeroen; Weisheit, Andreas; Raabe, Dierk
We describe and study the thermal profiles experienced by various age-hardenable alloys during laser additive manufacturing (LAM), employing two different manufacturing techniques: selective laser melting and laser metal deposition. Using scanning electron microscopy and atom probe tomography, we reveal at which stages during the manufacturing process desired and undesired precipitation reactions can occur in age-hardenable alloys. Using examples from a maraging steel, a nickel-base superalloy and a scandium-containing aluminium alloy, we demonstrate that precipitation can already occur during the production of the powders used as starting material, during the deposition of material (i.e. during solidification and subsequent cooling), during the intrinsic heat treatment effected by LAM (i.e. in the heat affected zones) and, naturally, during an ageing post-heat treatment. These examples demonstrate the importance of understanding and controlling the thermal profile during the entire additive manufacturing cycle of age-hardenable materials including powder synthesis.
Rapid and selective chelatometric titration of zinc in non-ferrous alloys.
Nan, Z; Zhi-Ren, L; Yuan-Xiang, G
A rapid titrimetric method for the determination of Zn (5%) in zinc, aluminium and copper alloys is proposed. It is based on the chelation of Zn(II) with HEDTA as titrant in an ethanolic aqueous medium. The end-point is detected with hydrazidazol, a new indicator developed in China. Up to at least 6% Mn in the alloy does not interfere. Direct determination of Zn(II) is rendered possible by using a combination of masking agents. A separation is needed only if nickel is also present. A decided advantage of this method is its high selectivity. The standard deviation was found to be 0.07 mg and the coefficient of variation to vary from 0.2 to 0.5%. The method has been successfully used to determine Zn in different kinds of non-ferrous alloys, especially those containing Mn. PMID:18963480
Shear Strength of Single Lap Joint Aluminium-Thermoplastic Natural Rubber (Al-TPNR) Laminated Composite
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Muzakkar, M. Z.; Ahmad, S.; Yarmo, M. A.; Jalar, A.; Bijarimi, M.
In this work, we studied the effect of surface treatment on the aluminium surface and a coupling agent to improve adhesion between aluminium with organic polymer. Thermoplastic natural rubber (TPNR) matrix was prepared by melt blending of natural rubber (NR), liquid natural rubber (LNR) compatibilizer, linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) and polyethylene grafted maleic anhydride (PE-g-MAH). The PEgMAH concentration used was varied from 0% - 25%. In addition, the aluminium surface was pre-treated with 3-glycidoxy propyl trimethoxy silane (3-GPS) to enhance the mechanical properties of laminated composite. It was found that the shear strength of single lap joint Al-TPNR laminated composite showing an increasing trend as a function of PE-g-MAH contents for the 3-GPS surface treated aluminium. Moreover, the scanning electron microscope (SEM) revealed that the strength improvement was associated with the chemical state of the compound involved.
[B-cell pseudolymphoma caused by aluminium hydroxide following hyposensitization therapy].
Hernández, I; Sanmartín, O; Cardá, C; Góme, S; Alfaro, A
Aluminium hydroxide is used as an adjuvant in vaccines. We describe the case of a patient who presented a persistent adverse local reaction to aluminium hydroxide due to hyposensitization therapy to dust mites. Multiple painful and pruriginous subcutaneous nodules were observed in both arms, along with hypertrichosis at the injection site. Histology revealed a pseudolymphomatous B cell reaction predominantly involving cells that were CD20 positive, did not express bcl-2, and did not display the t(14-18) translocation. The cells also exhibited polyclonal rearrangement of the immunoglobulin heavy chains. X-ray spectral microanalysis revealed deposits of inorganic aluminium in the granular histiocytes among the germinal centers. The patient was diagnosed with cutaneous B-cell pseudolymphoma due to aluminium hydroxide as a result of immunotherapy. PMID:18358197
COMMENT: Comment on 'Synthesis of nanowires and nanoparticles of cubic aluminium nitride'
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Tondare, V. N.
Contradictory claims about synthesized nanoscopic aluminium nitride material have been communicated in the same month to two different journals (Balasubramanian et al 2004 Nanotechnology 15 370; 2004 Chem. Phys. Lett. 383 188) when citing an article in Applied Physics Letters (Tondare et al 2002 Appl. Phys. Lett. 80 4813). The contradiction arises because two different claims have been made about the synthesized nanoscopic material as aluminium nitride nanotubes and as aluminium nitride nanowires. The authors of the article published in Nanotechnology have re-interpreted the results of the field emission micrographs published in the article mentioned above (2002 Appl. Phys. Lett. 80 4813). This comment explains in detail that their re-interpretation lacks a scientific basis. It also provides a few prominent articles for the reader to refer to on the synthesis of aluminium nitride nanotubes and nanowires, which have not been cited in the articles mentioned above by Balasubramanian and co-workers.
Analysis of compressive strength in flatwise and edgewise direction to characterize Al-7000 aluminium foam
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Sutarno, Soepriyanto, Syoni; Korda, Akhmad A.; Dirgantara, Tatacipta
The physical mechanical properties of Al-7000 aluminium foam product and processing has been evaluated in this study. The characterization through the compressive testing refers to flatwise direction provided more confident result than edgewise direction. This experiment may correlate with formation of side products of calcia alumina and alumina silica that involved in metal mixture of aluminium foam. These compounds are formed from additional calcium carbonate and silica in the mixture. Calcium carbonate (CaCO3) roles as a blowing agent source of carbon dioxide (CO2). The formation of calcia alumina (CaO.Al2O3) may role to strengthen of cell wall of aluminium foam and to improve the viscosity of melting metal. The Al-7000 aluminium foam indicated a decrease of compressive strength probably due to existence of alumina silica (3Al2O3.SiO2) in the metal mixture.
Mid-Infrared Spectroscopy of Calcium-Aluminium-Rich Inclusions: A Tool to Detect Primitive Asteroids?
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Melwani Daswani, M.; Morlok, A.; Wolters, S. D.; Grady, M. M.
Calcium-aluminium-rich inclusions in Vigarano, Ornans and Allende have characteristic refractory components that may help us identify primitive near-Earth asteroids through mid-IR space telescope spectrometers. We have identified some features.
Direct determination of fluoride in aluminium reduction materials by using an ion-selective electrode.
Palmer, T A
Macro amounts of fluoride in aluminium reduction materials are successfully determined with a fluoride electrode. Except for anhydrous aluminium fluoride, which requires fusion with sodium hydroxide, samples are dissolved in aqueous media. Cryolite and sodium fluorosilicatc are dissolved in boiling sodium hydroxide solution. Other materials containing fluoride, such as fluorspar and the reduction cell bath and pot-lining, require dissolution in a hydrochloric acid solution of aluminium chloride. Potential interference from large amounts of aluminium (and calcium, if present) is eliminated and pH control attained by using ammoniacal sulphosalicylate (and EDTA). The procedures are reasonably rapid. Relative errors of less than 2% and a relative standard deviation of 1% are achieved. PMID:18961164
Aluminium and Alzheimer's disease: sites of aluminium binding in human neuroblastoma cells determined using 26Al and accelerator mass spectrometry
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
King, S. J.; Templar, J.; Miller, R. V.; Day, J. P.; Dobson, C. B.; Itzhaki, R. F.; Fifield, L. K.; Allan, G. L.
The aluminium distribution between the major cell compartments of human neuroblastoma cells grown in culture has been determined using 21Al and accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS). Cells (IMR-32) were grown for eight days in a culture medium containing Al-EDTA (0.2mM) spiked with 26Al, harvested, and fractionated by standard biochemical techniques. 26Al in fractions after ashing to Al 2O 3 was determined by AMS using the 14UD accelerator at ANU Canberra. The cytoplasmic and nuclear cell compartments appeared to have reached diffusive equilibrium with the culture medium. Whilst 26Al was retained by the nuclear proteins and nuclear sap, 26Al did not appear to bind to the nucleic acids (DNA/RNA).
Naturally occurring radioactive material from the aluminium industry--a case study: the Egyptian Aluminium Company, Nag Hammady, Egypt.
Abbady, Adel G E; El-Arabi, A M
The activity concentrations and the gamma-absorbed dose rates of the terrestrial naturally occurring radionuclides (226)Ra and (232)Th were determined in samples of bauxite, alumina and aluminium dross tailings industrial waste (used to produce two types of alums) using high purity germanium (HPGe) gamma ray spectrometry. The bauxite and alumina are imported by Egyptalum (The Egyptian Aluminium Company, Nag Hammady, Egypt) from Guinea and India. The activity concentrations in the bauxite range from 29 +/- 1 to 112 +/- 6 Bq kg(-1) for (226)Ra, and 151 +/- 8 to 525 +/- 12 Bq kg(-1) for (232)Th, with mean values of 62 +/- 8 and 378 +/- 50 Bq kg(-1), respectively. With respect to alumina and tail, the mean values are 5.7 +/- 1.1 and 8.4 +/- 0.8 Bq kg(-1) for (226)Ra and 7.2 +/- 1.6 and 10.7 +/- 1.2 Bq kg(-1) for (232)Th. Potassium-40 was not detected in any of the studied samples. The measured activity concentrations of (226)Ra and (232)Th in bauxite are higher than the world average while in alumina and tail they are lower. As a measure of radiation hazard to the occupational workers and members of the public, the Ra equivalent activities and external gamma dose rates due to natural radionuclides at 1 m above the ground surface were calculated. The external gamma-radiation doses received by the Egyptalum workers are 97, 409, 8.5 and 12.7 microSv y(-1) for the Guinean and Indian bauxite, the alumina and tail, respectively, which is well below the recommended allowed dose of 1 mSv y(-1) for non-exposed workers. PMID:17146126
Effects of aluminium on electrical and mechanical properties of frog atrial muscle.
Meiri, H.; Shimoni, Y.
1. The effects of aluminium on membrane ionic currents were studied in single cardiac myocytes. Most of the work was done on frog atrial cells, but some experiments were also carried out on single cells isolated from rabbit ventricles and atria. 2. The effects of aluminium on the force of contraction of frog atrial trabeculae were also investigated. 3. Aluminium was prepared from AlCl3 as a stock 0.5 M solution which has a pH of 3.5. Before each experiment, this solution was added to the control solution, to give a final concentration of 20-100 micrograms ml-1 aluminium (0.75-3.75 mM AlCl3). The solutions were brought to a pH of 7.4 or 7.6. at which they consist of a mixture of amorphous aluminium hydroxides and a very small amount of soluble ionic aluminium complexes: free aluminium cations (less than 10 pM), aluminohydroxide anions (less than 8 microM). The addition of this suspension reduced the peak inward calcium currents in single rabbit atrial and ventricular cells and in frog atrial cells. In the latter, the peak current was reduced (at + 10 mV) to 45% of control (mean of 9 cells). This effect was reversible upon washout, and was obtained at all membrane potentials, with no shift of the calcium current voltage relationship along the voltage axis. 4. Aluminium also reduced the time-dependent potassium current IK. This reduction was observed at all membrane potentials. For example, at + 10 mV, the mean reduction of IK (n = 9) was to 69% of the control amplitude. This effect, which was very difficult to reverse, was not due to IK rundown.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID:2015425
Étude de surface d'une poudre d'alliage d'aluminium
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Trochim, D.; Bois, N.; Chermant, J. L.
Electron Spectroscopy for Chemicals Analysis (ESCA) was used to determine the concentration of elements in the surface of aluminum alloy of the type ASGM 0.7. Aluminum, silicon and magnesium can exist either in the form of element or element oxide. It was shown that the oxides are amorphous. Subsequently, the increase in magnesium oxide following a heat treatment was determined. The increase in thickness was studied for specimens heated at 410 and 535 °C. It appears that with increasing temperature the proportion of MgO increases and also the valency of the bonds is higher than for compact material. Argon ion beam milling was used to remove surface layer enabling sub-surface analysis of the powder. The ratio {I_MgO/(I_AlO + I_Al)} (I refers to integrated intensity of photoelectronic peaks) was determined using an empirical formula. It approaches a constant value asymptocally with increasing depth. The ratio is 5% for compacted material heated at 410 °C. It was shown that alumina exists in the amorphous state and does not crystallize to γ{-}Al_2O_3 on heating. The increase in MgO could be due to the slow sublimation of magnesium. La spectroscopie de photoélectrons X (ESCA) a permis d'analyser les éléments superficiels d'un alliage d'aluminium ASGM 0,7. L'aluminium, le silicium et le magnésium présentent deux types de liaison, soit élément-oxyde, soit élément-élément. On a vérifié que les formes oxydées sont de structure amorphe. Dans un second temps, l'augmentation de la proportion d'oxyde de magnésium en surface intervenant après traitement thermique de cette poudre a été caractérisée. Ainsi, l'épaisseur de MgO a été étudiée pour des échantillons chauffés à 410 et 535 °C. Il apparaît que plus la température augmente, plus la proportion de MgO croît et, de plus, les valeurs des énergies de liaison élément-oxyde augmentent par rapport à celles dans le matériau brut. À l'aide de l'abrasion par jet d'Ar^+, le d
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
MacKay, Rebecca
The High Speed Research Airfoil Alloy Program developed a fourth-generation alloy with up to an +85 F increase in creep rupture capability over current production airfoil alloys. Since improved strength is typically obtained when the limits of microstructural stability are exceeded slightly, it is not surprising that this alloy has a tendency to exhibit microstructural instabilities after high temperature exposures. This presentation will discuss recent results obtained on coated fourth-generation alloys for subsonic turbine blade applications under the NASA Ultra-Efficient Engine Technology (UEET) Program. Progress made in reducing microstructural instabilities in these alloys will be presented. In addition, plans will be presented for advanced alloy development and for computational modeling, which will aid future alloy development efforts.
Oxidation and waste-to-energy output of aluminium waste packaging during incineration: A laboratory study.
López, Félix A; Román, Carlos Pérez; García-Díaz, Irene; Alguacil, Francisco J
This work reports the oxidation behaviour and waste-to-energy output of different semi-rigid and flexible aluminium packagings when incinerated at 850°C in an air atmosphere enriched with 6% oxygen, in the laboratory setting. The physical properties of the different packagings were determined, including their metallic aluminium contents. The ash contents of their combustion products were determined according to standard BS ISO 1171:2010. The net calorific value, the required energy, and the calorific gain associated with each packaging type were determined following standard BS EN 13431:2004. Packagings with an aluminium lamina thickness of >50μm did not fully oxidise. During incineration, the weight-for-weight waste-to-energy output of the packagings with thick aluminium lamina was lower than that of packagings with thin lamina. The calorific gain depended on the degree of oxidation of the metallic aluminium, but was greater than zero for all the packagings studied. Waste aluminium may therefore be said to act as an energy source in municipal solid waste incineration systems. PMID:26148645
Further evidence of centrophenoxine mediated protection in aluminium exposed rats by biochemical and light microscopy analysis.
Nehru, Bimla; Bhalla, Punita; Garg, Aarti
The environmental agent aluminium has been intensively investigated in the initiation and progression of various neurological disorders and the role of oxidative stress in these disorders is a widely discussed phenomenon. In this light, the present study is focused on the role of aluminium in mediating oxidative stress, which may help in better understanding its role in neuronal degeneration. Further, we have exploited a known anti-aging drug centrophenoxine to explore its potential in the conditions of metal induced oxidative damage. Aluminium was administered orally at a dose level of 100 mg/kg b.wt./day for a period of 6 weeks followed by a post treatment of centrophenoxine at a dose level of 100 mg/kg b.wt./day for another 6 weeks. Following aluminium exposure, a significant increase in lipid peroxidation levels (estimated by MDA) were observed which was accompanied by a decrease in reduced glutathione content in both cerebrum and cerebellum of rat brain. Post treatment of centrophenoxine significantly reduced the lipid peroxidation levels and also increased the reduced glutathione content in both the regions. Histologically observed marked deteriorations in the organization of various cellular layers in both cerebrum and cerebellum were observed after aluminium administration. Centrophenoxine treated animals showed an appreciable improvement in the histoarchitecture of the cellular layers. Our results indicate that centrophenoxine has an antioxidant potential and should be examined further in aluminium toxic conditions. PMID:17688990
Characterization of individual aerosol particles in workroom air of aluminium smelter potrooms.
Hoflich, Burkard L W; Weinbruch, Stephan; Theissmann, Ralf; Gorzawski, Hauke; Ebert, Martin; Ortner, Hugo M; Skogstad, Asbjorn; Ellingsen, Dag G; Drablos, Per A; Thomassen, Yngvar
Aerosol particles with aerodynamic diameters between 0.18 and 10 microm were collected in the workroom air of two aluminium smelter potrooms with different production processes (Soderberg and Prebake processes). Size, morphology and chemical composition of more than 2000 individual particles were determined by high resolution scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis. Based on chemical composition and morphology, particles were classified into different groups. Particle groups with a relative abundance above 1%(by number) include aluminium oxides, cryolite, aluminium oxides-cryolite mixtures, soot, silicates and sea salt. In both production halls, mixtures of aluminium oxides and cryolite are the dominant particle group. Many particles have fluoride-containing surface coatings or show agglomerations of nanometer-sized fluoride-containing particles on their surface. The phase composition of approximately 100 particles was studied by transmission electron microscopy. According to selected area electron diffraction, sodium beta-alumina (NaAl(11)O(17)) is the dominant aluminium oxide and cryolite (Na(3)AlF(6)) the only sodium aluminium fluoride present. Implications of our findings for assessment of adverse health effects are discussed. PMID:15877161
Two hundred years of aluminum ... or is it aluminium?
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Kvande, Halvor
Two hundred years ago the word aluminum was used for the first time when a new metal was produced by the English chemist Sir Humphry Davy. Later work has shown that this metal was not pure, but rather an aluminum-iron alloy. This article commemorates the anniversary of aluminum production with a look back at the metal's origins.
Cleary, H.J.
A new vanadium-base alloy which possesses remarkable superconducting properties is presented. The alloy consists of approximately one atomic percent of palladium, the balance being vanadium. The alloy is stated to be useful in a cryotron in digital computer circuits.
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Frazier, D. O.; Facemire, B. R.; Kaukler, W. F.; Witherow, W. K.; Fanning, U.
Studies of monotectic alloys and alloy analogs reviewed. Report surveys research on liquid/liquid and solid/liquid separation in binary monotectic alloys. Emphasizes separation processes in low gravity, such as in outer space or in free fall in drop towers. Advances in methods of controlling separation in experiments highlighted.
Cramer, E.M.; Ellinger, F.H.; Land. C.C.
Delta-phase plutonium alloys were developed suitable for use as reactor fuels. The alloys consist of from 1 to 4 at.% zinc and the balance plutonium. The alloys have good neutronic, corrosion, and fabrication characteristics snd possess good dimensional characteristics throughout an operating temperature range from 300 to 490 deg C.
Schonfeld, F.W.
New plutonium-base binary alloys useful as liquid reactor fuel are described. The alloys consist of 50 to 98 at.% thorium with the remainder plutonium. The stated advantages of these alloys over unalloyed plutonium for reactor fuel use are easy fabrication, phase stability, and the accompanying advantuge of providing a means for converting Th/sup 232/ into U/sup 233/.
Hydride formation in an Al-Li alloy on cathodic hydrogen charging
Thakur, C.; Balasubramaniam
Several types of aluminium lithium hydrides can form when aluminium and lithium react with hydrogen. Dickenson et al. reported the precipitation of LiH in the subsurface region of Al-Li alloys on annealing in dry air, dry hydrogen and wet air at 550 C. Balasubramaniam et al. unambiguously identified, by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), the presence of LiAlH{sub 4} in an Al-Li-Cu alloy under SCC conditions. In the present study, the phase changes that occur on room temperature cathodic hydrogen charging of an Al-Li-Cu-Mg alloy have been investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD). The diffraction peaks of LiH and LiAlH{sub 4} occur at distinctly different locations, for example, the 100% peak for LiAlH{sub 4} occurs at 2{theta} = 22.9{degree} and the same for LiH occurs at 2{theta} = 44.4{degree}. Therefore, unambiguous identification of the hydride phase is possible.
In vitro evaluation of cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of a commercial titanium alloy for dental implantology.
Velasco-Ortega, Eugenio; Jos, Angeles; Cameán, Ana M; Pato-Mourelo, Jesús; Segura-Egea, Juan J
Titanium and its alloys have many applications in dentistry, being used in orthodontics, endodontics, prosthetics and implantology. But the use in the biomedical field depends on its biocompatibility, as the Council Directive 93/42/EEC of 14 June 1993 concerning medical devices has established. The aim of this study was to investigate the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of a commercial titanium/aluminium/vanadium alloy (Ti-6Al-4V) developed by an innovative sand-blast process with aluminium oxide, and nitric-acid passivation. This procedure created a material with an average surface roughness of 1.73±0.16μm with applications in dental implants. International Organization for Standardization (ISO) procedures 7405:2008 and 10993-5:2009 were used to perform the cytotoxicity tests, and bacterial and cell-mutation assays to evaluate genotoxicity. The results show that this titanium alloy (Ti-6Al-4V) was neither cytotoxic nor genotoxic in any of the tests performed. It can be concluded that this new Ti-6Al-4V material with the roughness characteristics specified shows good biocompatibility and can be considered of choice in dental implantology. PMID:20615479
Water defluoridation by aluminium oxide-manganese oxide composite material.
Alemu, Sheta; Mulugeta, Eyobel; Zewge, Feleke; Chandravanshi, Bhagwan Singh
In this study, aluminium oxide-manganese oxide (AOMO) composite material was synthesized, characterized, and tested for fluoride removal in batch experiments. AOMO was prepared from manganese(II) chloride and aluminium hydroxide. The surface area of AOMO was found to be 30.7m2/g and its specific density was determined as 2.78 g/cm3. Detailed investigation of the adsorbent by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry, inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry, and ion chromatography (for sulphate only) showed that it is composed of Al, Mn, SO4, and Na as major components and Fe, Si, Ca, and Mg as minor components. Thermogravimetric analysis was used to study the thermal behaviour of AOMO. X-ray diffraction analysis showed that the adsorbent is poorly crystalline. The point of zero charge was determined as 9.54. Batch experiments (by varying the proportion of MnO, adsorbent dose, contact time, initial F concentration, and raw water pH) showed that fluoride removal efficiency ofAOMO varied significantly with percentage of MnO with an optimum value of about I11% of manganese oxide in the adsorbent. The optimum dose of the adsorbent was 4 g/L which corresponds to the equilibrium adsorption capacity of 4.8 mg F-/g. Both the removal efficiency and adsorption capacity showed an increasing trend with an increase in initial fluoride concentration of the water. The pH for optimum fluoride removal was found to be in the range between 5 and 7. The adsorption data were analysed using the Freundlich, Langmuir, and Dubinirn-Radushkevich models. The minimum adsorption capacity obtained from the non-linear Freundlich isotherm model was 4.94 mg F-/g and the maximum capacity from the Langmuir isotherm method was 19.2mg F-/g. The experimental data of fluoride adsorption on AOMO fitted well to the Freundlich isotherm model. Kinetic studies showed that the adsorption is well described by a non-linear pseudo-second-order reaction model with an average rate constant of 3
Substitution of Nickel by Combined Addition of Cobalt and Zirconium in Alloy A 332
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Wüstenhagen, Andreas; Tonn, Babette
Due to the increasing international competition and the resulting pricing pressure it is imperative to avoid the use of expensive alloying elements during the production of aluminium castings. The piston alloy A 332 shows an optimum combination of mechanical and casting properties and an attractive cost-performance ratio whereas nickel is the most expensive alloying element. A substitution of nickel by a combined addition of low contents of cobalt and zirconium has the potential capacitiy to increase the mechanical properties and reduce the costs of the alloy. At Clausthal University of Technology Thermo-Calc simulations and casting experiments were carried out to investigate the effect of the nickel subtitution. Thermo-Calc-simulations were made to analyze the intermetallic phases in these alloys. These simulations were evaluated by observations under optical microscope and SEM of specimens poured into permanent moulds. The size and morphology of the intermetallic phases and the primary silicon was analyzed by the use of image analysis software. The mechanical properties of the alloys were determined by tensile tests at room temperature, 250° C and 350° C. The tensile specimens were tested in as-cast and pre-aged condition. The effect on the castability was characterized by determining the flow length and the susceptibility to form shrinkages and hot cracks. The standard alloy A 332 and the new piston alloy with cobalt and zirconium were compared. The new alloy AlSi12,6Cu1Mg1CoZr exhibits a yield strength of 115 MPa and a tensile strength of 171 MPa at 250° C in pre-aged condition (250° C/100 h). At 350° C the new alloy displays a yield strength of 57 MPa and a tensile strength of 85 MPa in pre-aged condition (350° C/100h). Compared to the reference alloy AlSi12,6Cu1Ni1Mg1 the yield strength at 250° C was improved about 25% and the yield strength at 350° C about 7%. The favorable castability of the reference alloy is not affected by the substitution of
Maziasz, Phillip James; Shingledecker, John Paul; Santella, Michael Leonard; Schneibel, Joachim Hugo; Sikka, Vinod Kumar; Vinegar, Harold J.; John, Randy Carl; Kim, Dong Sub
High strength metal alloys are described herein. At least one composition of a metal alloy includes chromium, nickel, copper, manganese, silicon, niobium, tungsten and iron. System, methods, and heaters that include the high strength metal alloys are described herein. At least one heater system may include a canister at least partially made from material containing at least one of the metal alloys. At least one system for heating a subterranean formation may include a tublar that is at least partially made from a material containing at least one of the metal alloys.
Maziasz, Phillip James; Shingledecker, John Paul; Santella, Michael Leonard; Schneibel, Joachim Hugo; Sikka, Vinod Kumar; Vinegar, Harold J; John, Randy Carl; Kim, Dong Sub
High strength metal alloys are described herein. At least one composition of a metal alloy includes chromium, nickel, copper, manganese, silicon, niobium, tungsten and iron. System, methods, and heaters that include the high strength metal alloys are described herein. At least one heater system may include a canister at least partially made from material containing at least one of the metal alloys. At least one system for heating a subterranean formation may include a tubular that is at least partially made from a material containing at least one of the metal alloys.
Spark alloying of an AL9 alloy by hard alloys
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Kuptsov, S. G.; Fominykh, M. V.; Mukhinov, D. V.; Magomedova, R. S.; Nikonenko, E. A.
The phase compositions of spark coatings of Kh12M steel with a VT1-0 (titanium) alloy and T15K6 and T30K4 hard alloys are studied. It is shown that the TiC titanium carbide forms in all cases and tungsten carbide decomposes with the formation of tungsten in a coating. These processes are intensified by increasing time, capacitance, and frequency. The surface hardness, the sample weight, and the white layer thickness increase monotonically.
Frank E. Goodwin
This report covers the development of Hot Chamber Die Castable Zinc Alloys with High Creep Strengths. This project commenced in 2000, with the primary objective of developing a hot chamber zinc die-casting alloy, capable of satisfactory service at 140 C. The core objectives of the development program were to: (1) fill in missing alloy data areas and develop a more complete empirical model of the influence of alloy composition on creep strength and other selected properties, and (2) based on the results from this model, examine promising alloy composition areas, for further development and for meeting the property combination targets, with the view to designing an optimized alloy composition. The target properties identified by ILZRO for an improved creep resistant zinc die-casting alloy were identified as follows: (1) temperature capability of 1470 C; (2) creep stress of 31 MPa (4500 psi); (3) exposure time of 1000 hours; and (4) maximum creep elongation under these conditions of 1%. The project was broadly divided into three tasks: (1) Task 1--General and Modeling, covering Experimental design of a first batch of alloys, alloy preparation and characterization. (2) Task 2--Refinement and Optimization, covering Experimental design of a second batch of alloys. (3) Task 3--Creep Testing and Technology transfer, covering the finalization of testing and the transfer of technology to the Zinc industry should have at least one improved alloy result from this work.
Derivation of a water quality guideline for aluminium in marine waters.
Golding, Lisa A; Angel, Brad M; Batley, Graeme E; Apte, Simon C; Krassoi, Rick; Doyle, Chris J
Metal risk assessment of industrialized harbors and coastal marine waters requires the application of robust water quality guidelines to determine the likelihood of biological impacts. Currently there is no such guideline available for aluminium in marine waters. A water quality guideline of 24 µg total Al/L has been developed for aluminium in marine waters based on chronic 10% inhibition or effect concentrations (IC10 or EC10) and no-observed-effect concentrations (NOECs) from 11 species (2 literature values and 9 species tested including temperate and tropical species) representing 6 taxonomic groups. The 3 most sensitive species tested were a diatom Ceratoneis closterium (formerly Nitzschia closterium; IC10 = 18 µg Al/L, 72-h growth rate inhibition) < mussel Mytilus edulis plannulatus (EC10 = 250 µg Al/L, 72-h embryo development) < oyster Saccostrea echinata (EC10 = 410 µg Al/L, 48-h embryo development). Toxicity to these species was the result of the dissolved aluminium forms of aluminate (Al(OH4 (-) ) and aluminium hydroxide (Al(OH)3 (0) ) although both dissolved, and particulate aluminium contributed to toxicity in the diatom Minutocellus polymorphus and green alga Dunaliella tertiolecta. In contrast, aluminium toxicity to the green flagellate alga Tetraselmis sp. was the result of particulate aluminium only. Four species, a brown macroalga (Hormosira banksii), sea urchin embryo (Heliocidaris tuberculata), and 2 juvenile fish species (Lates calcarifer and Acanthochromis polyacanthus), were not adversely affected at the highest test concentration used. PMID:25318392
Determination of aluminium induced metabolic changes in mice liver: A Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy study
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Sivakumar, S.; Sivasubramanian, J.; Khatiwada, Chandra Prasad; Manivannan, J.; Raja, B.
In this study, we made a new approach to evaluate aluminium induced metabolic changes in liver tissue of mice using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis taking one step further in correlation with strong biochemical evidence. This finding reveals the alterations on the major biochemical constituents, such as lipids, proteins, nucleic acids and glycogen of the liver tissues of mice. The peak area value of amide A significantly decrease from 288.278 ± 3.121 to 189.872 ± 2.012 between control and aluminium treated liver tissue respectively. Amide I and amide II peak area value also decrease from 40.749 ± 2.052 to 21.170 ± 1.311 and 13.167 ± 1.441 to 8.953 ± 0.548 in aluminium treated liver tissue respectively. This result suggests an alteration in the protein profile. The absence of olefinicdbnd CH stretching band and Cdbnd O stretching of triglycerides in aluminium treated liver suggests an altered lipid levels due to aluminium exposure. Significant shift in the peak position of glycogen may be the interruption of aluminium in the calcium metabolism and the reduced level of calcium. The overall findings exhibit that the liver metabolic program is altered through increasing the structural modification in proteins, triglycerides and quantitative alteration in proteins, lipids, and glycogen. All the above mentioned modifications were protected in desferrioxamine treated mice. Histopathological results also revealed impairment of aluminium induced alterations in liver tissue. The results of the FTIR study were found to be in agreement with biochemical studies and which demonstrate FTIR can be used successfully to indicate the molecular level changes.
The effect of metallic oxide deposition on the electrochemical behaviour of Al-Zn-Mg-Sn alloy in natural tropical seawater
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Din Yati, M. S.; Nazree Derman, Mohd; Isa, M. C.; Y Ahmad, M.; Yusoff, N. H. N.; Muhammad, M. M.; Nain, H.
The potential of aluminium alloys as anode materials in cathodic protection system has been explored and a significant improvement has been achieved. However, for marine application, it is quite difficult to maintain continuous activation process due to passivation behavior of aluminum alloys. Therefore, to choose the best activation mechanism for aluminium alloy in marine environment, it has to be considered from various points such as alloy composition and surface treatment. This paper report the effect of metallic ruthenium oxide (RuO2) deposition on the surface of as-cast Al-Zn-Mg-Sn alloy and to study the effect of its presence on the electrochemical behavior using direct current (DC) electrochemical polarization and current capacity measurement. The morphology and topography of corroded surface were studied by the aid of scanning electron microscope (SEM) and confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM) respectively. Results from this study showed that the presence of intermetallic compound (Mg2Sn) and also mixed metal oxide compound (Al2O3 and RuO2) on the alloy surface has been very useful in improving electrochemical reaction and charge transfer activities in chloride containing solution. This study also showed that RuO2 catalytic coating applied on the surface of Al-Zn-Mg-Sn alloy has slightly increased the corrosion current density compared to Al-Zn-Mg-Sn without RuO2. The corrosion morphology and topography of corroded surface of Al-Zn-Mg-Sn alloy deposited with RuO2 was found more uniform corrosion attack with the formation of porous and fibrous mud-like crack on outer layer. Based on surface morphology and 3D topographic studies, these features were believed to facilitate ionic species adsorption and diffusion through corrosion product layer at solution-alloy interface. Deposited RuO2 films also was found to increase of current efficiency by more than 10%.
Evidence of superdense aluminium synthesized by ultrafast microexplosion
Vailionis, Arturas; Gamaly, Eugene G.; Mizeikis, Vygantas; Yang, Wenge; Rode, Andrei V.; Juodkazis, Saulius
At extreme pressures and temperatures, such as those inside planets and stars, common materials form new dense phases with compacted atomic arrangements and unusual physical properties. The synthesis and study of new phases of matter at pressures above 100 GPa and temperatures above 104 K—warm dense matter—may reveal the functional details of planet and star interiors, and may lead to materials with extraordinary properties. Many phases have been predicted theoretically that may be realized once appropriate formation conditions are found. Here we report the synthesis of a superdense stable phase of body-centred-cubic aluminium, predicted by first-principles theories to exist at pressures above 380 GPa. The superdense Al phase was synthesized in the non-equilibrium conditions of an ultrafast laser-induced microexplosion confined inside sapphire (α-Al2O3). Confined microexplosions offer a strategy to create and recover high-density polymorphs, and a simple method for tabletop study of warm dense matter. PMID:21863012
Aluminium intoxication in undialysed adults with chronic renal failure.
Russo, L S; Beale, G; Sandroni, S; Ballinger, W E
The dialysis encephalopathy syndrome (DES) consists of altered mental status, communication difficulty, seizures and myoclonus. It has been attributed to elevated serum aluminium (A1) levels. Two undialysed patients with chronic renal failure who presented with the characteristic syndrome are reported. The first, a 48 year old female, had used A1 containing phosphate binders for two years. Her serum A1 level was 25.34 mumol/L. Despite treatment with desferoximine and dialysis, she died. Necropsy revealed elevated A1 levels in the cerebral cortex (19 mcg/gm) and spongioform change in the outer three cortical layers. The second patient, a 46 year old woman, had a serum A1 of 8.70 mumol/L. She had never taken A1 containing phosphate binders but had taken several grams/day of citrate for at least six months. Treatment with haemodialysis and discontinuation of the citrate produced a resolution of symptoms and return of the A1 level to normal. During two years of haemodialysis there has been no recurrence. Images PMID:1527541
Industrial hygiene survey in an aluminium reduction plant in India.
Mukherjee, Ashit K; Ravichandran, Beerappa; Bhattacharya, Sanat K; Roy, Sanjit K; Ahmed, Sabir; Thakur, Sridhar; Saiyed, Habibullah N
This study reports a work-environmental assessment and workers' exposure in a major prebake type aluminium smelter in India. Levels of known health hazards in and near the main smelting operations viz., the Potroom, the Carbon area, the Butt section, the Rodding shop, the Bath preparing area and the Casthouse were measured. Dustiness in general was high to excessively high. Mean levels of respirable dust (PM10) in air in the three dustiest areas were 24.07 mg/m3 in the Carbon areas, 27.57 mg/m3 in the Bath preparing and 4.44 mg/m3 in the Rodding shop. 40- 60% of the particles were less than 5 microm in size. 0.5- 2.82% particulate fluoride was obtained in the size fraction 0.4- 4.7 microm of the Potroom air. Naturally, exposures to total dusts were very high in these processes. The background levels of NOx and SO2 and fluorides (gaseous and particulate) were found to be within the prescribed Indian Standards. Higher exposures to gaseous and particulate fluoride, 3.85 and 6.53 mg/m3 respectively, were observed among the Rodding shop workers. The levels ofpolycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were deemed to be excessive in the Carbon area. Measurements of heat stress were made in winter and were found to be lower than the prescribed limit. PMID:18783008
Electrocoagulation of cutting oil emulsions using aluminium plate electrodes.
Bensadok, K; Benammar, S; Lapicque, F; Nezzal, G
The treatment of very concentrated oil-water emulsions by electrocoagulation (EC) was experimentally investigated as a pre-treatment step prior to a membrane process. The oil-water emulsion was prepared from a cutting mineral oil B22 currently used for drilling and machining operations. The electrocoagulation progress was followed by the measurement of COD, turbidity and pH in a batch process with recirculation of the liquid. This study is mainly focused on the effects of operating parameters such as initial pH, current density, oil concentration and recirculation rate, on the de-emulsification efficiency. Kinetic curves showed that the EC process exhibits two phases: a "reactive phase" during which the COD and the turbidity removals increase with electrolysis, and a stationary phase for which further aluminium dissolution is useless in the pollution abatement. The results showed that the treatment efficiency increases with increasing current density, but decreases with oil concentration. It appears that treatment of the considered cutting oil is completed through dissolution of around 10mgAl/g oil, with a slight positive effect of the liquid flow rate. Best results are also obtained with initial pH near 7. PMID:17706345
Asthma caused by potassium aluminium tetrafluoride: a case series.
Laštovková, Andrea; Klusáčková, Pavlina; Fenclová, Zdenka; Bonneterre, Vincent; Pelclová, Daniela
The objective of this study is to describe a case-series of potassium aluminium tetrafluoride (KAlF(4))-induced occupational asthma (OA) and/or occupational rhinitis (OR). The study involves five patients from a heat-exchanger production line who were examined (including specific inhalation challenge tests) for suspected OA and/or OR caused by a flux containing almost 100% KAlF(4) - with fluorides' workplace air concentrations ranging between 1.7 and 2.8 mg/m(3). No subject had a previous history of asthma. All five patients had a positive specific challenge test (three patients were diagnosed with OA alone, one with OR and one with both OR and OA). At the follow-up visit, after three years on average, all patients needed permanent corticosteroid therapy (four topical, one oral). After elimination from the exposure, only one of the observed subjects gave an indication of an improvement, two subjects stabilized and two worsened. Our case series focuses on the correlation between patients' exposure to fluorides in air-conditioner production and the subsequent occurrence of OR/OA. Currently, it is uncertain whether these OR/OA were caused by hypersensitivity or irritation. PMID:26212411
Optimization of phosphate removal in anodizing aluminium wastewater.
Chimenos, J M; Fernández, A I; Hernández, A; Haurie, L; Espiell, F; Ayora, C
The wastewater produced after brightening and anodizing aluminium has high concentrations of phosphates and sulphates. The addition of MgO in a first physico-chemical wastewater treatment step makes the selective recovery of phosphates in the form of magnesium phosphates feasible, which may be reused as fertilizer. The proposed wastewater treatment process allows manufacturers to reduce more than 70% of the volume of the precipitate in the sedimentation reactor and more than 50% of the weight of the final disposal sludge. In this study, the use of an alternative low-grade MgO (LG-MgO) as a source of magnesium, which is cheaper than pure MgO, is investigated. The phosphate concentration and pH of the treated wastewater is controlled by the formation and precipitation of newberyite or bobierrite as a function of the magnesium source added. According to experimental data, a reaction mechanism is proposed. Although LG-MgO reacts more slowly than pure MgO and it is necessary to add 3-4 times the stoichiometric amount, this procedure has considerable economic and technical advantages. PMID:16343583
Aluminium exposure disrupts elemental homeostasis in Caenorhabditis elegans†
Page, Kathryn E.; White, Keith N.; McCrohan, Catherine R.
Aluminium (Al) is highly abundant in the environment and can elicit a variety of toxic responses in biological systems. Here we characterize the effects of Al on Caenorhabditis elegans by identifying phenotypic abnormalities and disruption in whole-body metal homeostasis (metallostasis) following Al exposure in food. Widespread changes to the elemental content of adult nematodes were observed when chronically exposed to Al from the first larval stage (L1). Specifically, we saw increased barium, chromium, copper and iron content, and a reduction in calcium levels. Lifespan was decreased in worms exposed to low levels of Al, but unexpectedly increased when the Al concentration reached higher levels (4.8 mM). This bi-phasic phenotype was only observed when Al exposure occurred during development, as lifespan was unaffected by Al exposure during adulthood. Lower levels of Al slowed C. elegans developmental progression, and reduced hermaphrodite self-fertility and adult body size. Significant developmental delay was observed even when Al exposure was restricted to embryogenesis. Similar changes in Al have been noted in association with Al toxicity in humans and other mammals, suggesting that C. elegans may be of use as a model for understanding the mechanisms of Al toxicity in mammalian systems. PMID:22534883
Electrocoagulation efficiency of the tannery effluent treatment using aluminium electrodes.
Espinoza-Quiñones, Fernando R; Fornari, Marilda M T; Módenes, Aparecido N; Palácio, Soraya M; Trigueros, Daniela E G; Borba, Fernando H; Kroumov, Alexander D
An electro-coagulation laboratory scale system using aluminium plates electrodes was studied for the removal of organic and inorganic pollutants as a by-product from leather finishing industrial process. A fractional factorial 2(3) experimental design was applied in order to obtain optimal values of the system state variables. The electro-coagulation (EC) process efficiency was based on the chemical oxygen demand (COD), turbidity, total suspended solid, total fixed solid, total volatile solid, and chemical element concentration values. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) for final pH, total fixed solid (TFS), turbidity and Ca concentration have confirmed the predicted models by the experimental design within a 95% confidence level. The reactor working conditions close to real effluent pH (7.6) and electrolysis time in the range 30-45 min were enough to achieve the cost effective reduction factors of organic and inorganic pollutants' concentrations. An appreciable improvement in COD removal efficiency was obtained for electro-coagulation treatment. Finally, the technical-economical analysis results have clearly shown that the electro-coagulation method is very promising for industrial application. PMID:19844065
Successful Treatment of Aluminium Phosphide Poisoning by Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation.
Hassanian-Moghaddam, Hossein; Zamani, Nasim; Rahimi, Mitra; Hajesmaeili, Mohammadreza; Taherkhani, Maryam; Sadeghi, Roxana
Aluminium phosphide (ALP) is one of the most commonly used pesticides worldwide with high mortality rates. Cellular damage and cardiorespiratory failure are the most common causes of mortality and morbidity after poisoning. It is supposed that giving enough time to the patient to survive, the most critical hours after exposure may help the cardiovascular system to recover itself and save the patient's life. During a training workshop for medical extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), a 28-year-old ALP-poisoned male was referred to us. Fifty minutes after admission, he developed hypotension and bradycardia and was transferred to ICU. On the second venous blood gas, he had severe metabolic acidosis. After starting the patient on the routine treatment of ALP poisoning, he was a candidate for veno-arterial (VA) ECMO. After three days, lactate level decreased and his general condition improved. On day four, the patient was completely separated from the ECMO machine with acceptable echocardiography and ejection fraction of 40%. One day later, he was extubated, sent to the ward and subsequently discharged in good condition. We suggest this method of treatment for severe ALP poisoning as well as any other poisoning that causes cell toxicity and abrupt cardiovascular or respiratory failure. PMID:26335576
Aluminium stress disrupts metabolic performance of Plantago almogravensis plantlets transiently.
Grevenstuk, Tomás; Moing, Annick; Maucourt, Mickaël; Deborde, Catherine; Romano, Anabela
Little is known about how tolerant plants cope with internalized aluminium (Al). Tolerant plants are known to deploy efficient detoxification mechanisms, however it is not known to what extent the primary and secondary metabolism is affected by Al. The aim of this work was to study the metabolic repercussions of Al stress in the tolerant plant Plantago almogravensis. P. almogravensis is well adapted to acid soils where high concentrations of free Al are found and has been classified as a hyperaccumulator. In vitro reared plantlets were used for this purpose in order to control Al exposure rigorously. The metabolome of P. almogravensis plantlets as well as its metabolic response to the supply of sucrose was characterized. The supply of sucrose leads to an accumulation of amino acids and secondary metabolites and consumption of carbohydrates that result from increased metabolic activity. In Al-treated plantlets the synthesis of amino acids and secondary metabolites is transiently impaired, suggesting that P. almogravensis is able to recover from the Al treatment within the duration of the trials. In the presence of Al the consumption of carbohydrate resources is accelerated. The content of some metabolic stress markers also demonstrates that P. almogravensis is highly adapted to Al stress. PMID:26433896