Work

Synergistic improvement of strength and conductivity of 6101 alloy with high Fe content modified by trace Sr and Er

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study achieves the synergistic optimization of electrical conductivity and mechanical properties in a high-Fe-content (0.45 wt.%) Al-Mg-Si alloy through Sr-Er composite modification combined with thermo-mechanical processing. Results demonstrate that the addition of Sr and Er significantly alters the morphology of Fe-rich intermetallic compounds in the alloy, promoting the transformation of needle-like β-Fe phase to fishbone-like α-Fe phase, with cold rolling further refining them into uniformly distributed banded structures. The Sr/Er modified alloy exhibits the smallest average equivalent diameter (3.17 μm) and highest distribution density of Fe-rich phase, effectively reducing electron scattering while enhancing dislocation pinning effects. Moreover, the synergistic interaction between Sr-Er modification and thermo-mechanical processing refines grain size and increases precipitate density, thereby strengthening precipitation hardening. After aging treatment at 180°C for 7 h, the Sr/Er modified alloy demonstrates outstanding comprehensive performance, with a yield strength of 216.8 MPa, ultimate tensile strength of 238.1 MPa, elongation of 19.85%, and electrical conductivity of 56.21% IACS. Compared with the unmodified 0.45Fe alloy, both mechanical properties and conductivity are significantly improved. This research provides a feasible strategy to break through the traditional limitation of Fe impurity content (≤0.15 wt.%) in conductive aluminum alloys, establishing a theoretical foundation for the recycling and regenerative applications of high-Fe-content aluminum alloys.

Source: Journal of Materials Research and Technology

DOI: 10.1016/j.jmrt.2025.10.116

Authors: Weilun Chen, Chengyi Huang, Shougang Duan, Jialin Guo, Jun Du

Institution: South China University of Technology

Language: English

Topic: Aluminum Alloy Microstructure Properties

Subfield: Aerospace Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,640