The effect of native Al2O3 skin disruption on properties of fine Al powder compacts

In the presented study we characterize how various powder metallurgical routes (extrusion, forging, and HIP/sintering) affect the fracture of native Al2O3 layer present on the surface of ultra-fine atomized Al powders. It is shown that the different distribution, morphology and interconnectivity of in situ introduced Al2O3 dispersoids strongly affect the thermal stability and mechanical and thermal properties of subsequent powder compacts.

Research highlights▶ The effect of various powder metallurgy compaction routes on the microstructures and properties of ultra-fine atomized Al powder compacts. ▶ Applied compaction route affects the deformation and fracture of native Al2O3 layer present on the surface of as-atomized powder. ▶ Distribution, morphology and interconnectivity of in situ introduced Al2O3 dispersoids distinctly determine the compacts properties.