Processing Route Dependence of Microstructure and Mechanical Properties in an Al-Li-Mg Alloy for Lightweight Sports Equipment
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: The pursuit of lightweight, high-performance sports equipment drives the development of Al-Li-Mg alloys, yet systematic studies linking a complete processing route, from as-cast to peak-aged condition, to microstructural evolution and mechanical properties remain limited. This work provides the first comprehensive investigation of how a sequential processing route (homogenization, hot rolling, solution treatment, and peak aging) transforms the coarse as-cast structure of an Al-Li-Mg alloy into a refined, recrystallized grain architecture with a uniform dispersion of nanoscale δ′-Al3Li precipitates. This microstructural transformation leads to a dramatic enhancement in mechanical properties: the peak-aged alloy exhibits increases of approximately 92%, 139%, and 925% in yield strength, ultimate tensile strength, and elongation, respectively, relative to the as-cast condition. The dominant strengthening mechanism is identified as dislocation shearing of coherent δ′-Al3Li precipitates (average radius ~5 nm, well below the ~25 nm transition threshold for Orowan looping), which enhances strength without compromising ductility, demonstrating the critical role of the processing route in tailoring microstructures and mechanical properties for lightweight sports equipment.
Source: Crystals
Authors: Ge Liu, Shenchen Zhang, Yuncheng Zhu, Xin Li, Yingchao Zhao, Dengfeng Yin, Ming-Chun Zhao
Institutions: Jimei University, Central South University
Language: English
Subfield: Aerospace Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,534
OpenAlex ID: W7161569901