Effect of minor Sc and Zr addition on microstructures and mechanical properties of Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloys

Three kinds of Al-Zn-Mg-Cu based alloys with 0.22%, 0.36%(Sc+Zr) (mass fraction, %), and without Sc, Zr addition were prepared by ingot metallurgy. By using optical microscopy, transmission electronic microscopy and scanning electron microscopy, the effects of microalloying elements of Sc, Zr on the microstructure of super-high-strength Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloys related to mechanical properties were investigated. The tensile properties and microstructures of the studied alloys under different heat treatment conditions were studied. The addition of minor Sc, Zr results in the formation of Al3(Sc, Zr) particles. These particles are highly effective in refining the microstructures, retarding recrystallization, pinning dislocations and subboundaries. The strength of Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloys was greatly improved by simultaneously adding minor Sc, Zr, meanwhile the ductility of the studied alloys remains at a higher level. The 0.36%(Sc+Zr) alloys gain the optimal properties after 465 °C/h solution and 120 °C/24 h aging. The increment of strength is mainly due to strengthening of fine grain and substructure and precipitation of Al3(Sc, Zr) particles.