Effect of solute distribution on the strain rate sensitivity of solid solutions

An experimental study is presented regarding the effect of pre-existing inhomogeneous solute distribution on the strain rate sensitivity of a non-heat treatable Al–Mg alloy (AA5182). Tests are performed with specimens heat treated to eliminate pre-existing solute structures within the material and with specimens equilibrated at room temperature. The rate sensitivity is significantly more pronounced in the equilibrated specimens, which indicates that solute structures that exist before the test play a role in determining the rate sensitivity of the material at low temperatures.