Effect of Trace Sc Addition on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Al-Zn-Mg-Cu-Zr Alloy

Transition element microalloying is important for improving the properties of Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloys. Nevertheless, along with its high costs, increasing Sc content generates a harmful phase, limiting the strength of the alloy. In this experiment, we reduced the amount of Sc added to a Zr-containing Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloy by one order of magnitude. The microstructure and mechanical properties of the alloys were studied by means of tensile tests, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The findings indicate that the alloys' mechanical properties were progressively enhanced with the increase in Sc content from 0 to 0.04%. After adding 0.04% Sc, the tensile strength and yield strength of the Al-Zn-Mg-Cu-Zr-Sc alloy increased by 20.9% and 24.3%, reaching 716 MPa and 640 MPa, respectively, and the elongation decreased, but still reached 12.93%. The strengthening mechanisms of the trace addition of Sc are fine grain strengthening and precipitate and disperse strengthening, and Al₃(Sc, Zr) particles hinder the dislocation and grain boundary movement. Drawing on insights from other studies on Sc microalloying in Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloys, this experiment successfully reduced the amount of Sc added by an order of magnitude, the alloys properties were improved, and the effect of strengthening remained good.