Evaluation of mechanical properties of as-cast Al–Zn–Ce alloy

The effect of cerium on Al–Zn alloys with T6 and T5 treatments was investigated for mechanical and impact properties. Alloys were prepared by controlled melting and casting. The cast alloys were solution heat treated at 500–550 °C, for up to 24 h, followed by artificial aging at 165 °C for 6 h (T6). The T5 type temper was produced merely by applying a precipitation treatment to the as-cast castings, without previous solution treatment. All the tests were conducted according to ASTM standards. From the investigation, it was found that there was an improvement in mechanical and impact properties. Scanning electron microscopy was carried out to characterize the structural properties of different heat treatments and the effect of cerium. In addition, the fractured specimens were examined using a scanning electron microscopy in order to clarify fracture.