The separation of recrystallization and precipitation processes in a cold-rolled Al–Mg–Sc solid solution

The recrystallization and precipitation of Al3(Sc1−XZrX) particles in a cold-rolled Al–5.5Mg–0.5Mn–0.09Sc–0.09Zr solid solution have been separated by salt bath annealing. The new fine grains introduced by salt bath annealing can be preserved by virtue of the strong Zener pinning effect of Al3(Sc1−XZrX) particles, which precipitate after recrystallization. After salt bath annealing at 350–375 °C and subsequent peak aging at 300 °C, fine grains and minute Al3(Sc1−XZrX) particles could be obtained in this alloy, which shows good strength and elongation.