Effects of Cu/Mg ratio on microstructure and properties of AA7085 alloys

AA7085 aluminum alloys with different Cu/Mg ratios (0.67, 1.0, 1.06, 1.6) were prepared by ingot metallurgy method. The effects of Cu/Mg ratio on the microstructure, mechanical properties and corrosion behavior of the AA7085 alloys were investigated by optical microscope, scanning electron microscope (SEM), mechanical properties and corrosion testing. The results indicate that a better recrystallization inhibition and corrosion resistance can be achieved when Cu/Mg ratio is 1.6. When Cu/Mg ratio is 0.67, the alloy reveals better mechanical properties, and the tensile strength and yield strength of AA7085 alloys are 586 and 550 MPa, respectively. Moreover, both the mechanical properties and corrosion resistance of the alloy are reduced when Cu/Mg ratio is equal to 1.0.