5A06/TA2 diffusion bonding with Nb diffusion-retarding layers

The structure and performance of 5A06/TA2 diffusion bonding joints with or without Nb diffusion-retarding layers were studied by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and shear strength measurement. The results showed that a diffusion reaction occurred and Al18Ti2Mg3 was formed, which markedly decreased the joint strength, and the highest shear strength of 5A06/TA2 joint in direct bonding was 83 MPa. The Nb interlayer impeded the diffusion of Mg atoms from the Al side to the Ti side and also retarded the diffusion of Ti atoms from the Ti side to the Al side, which was acting as a diffusion-retarding layer. The joint strengths were increased by the Nb diffusion-retarding layers, and the highest shear strength reached 105 MPa. When Ti diffused across the Nb layer and achieved saturation nearby the interface with Al alloy, the diffusion reaction of Ti, Al and Mg occurred and Al18Ti2Mg3 appeared which decreased the joint strength.