A model for the thermodynamics of and strengthening due to co-clusters in Al–Mg–Si-based alloys

An expanded model for the thermodynamics of co-clusters and their strengthening is presented and applied to predict co-cluster formation and strengthening in Al–Mg–Si alloys. The models were tested against data on a wide range of Al–Mg–Si alloys aged at room temperature. The strengthening due to co-clusters is well predicted. The formation of co-clusters was studied in an Al–0.5 at.% Mg–1 at.% Si alloy using three-dimensional atom probe analysis. The results correspond well with the model. It is shown that in general (short-range) order strengthening due to co-clusters will be the main strengthening mechanism in these alloys. Apart from the co-clusters, Si clusters also form, but due to their low enthalpy of formation they contribute little to the strength.