Microstructure and creep properties of dispersion-strengthened aluminum alloys

Abstract

The mechanical properties of dispersion-strengthened aluminum alloys, with various dispersoid types, volume fractions, and grain structures, were investigated in conjunction with systematic microstructural examinations. New theoretical concepts, based on thermally activated dislocation detachment from dispersoid particles, were used to analyze the creep behavior. A particularly strong dispersoid-dislocation interaction was identified as reason for the excellent creep properties of carbide dispersion-strengthened aluminum. Oxide particles (Al2O3, MgO) seem to exert a weaker interaction force and are therefore less efficient strengtheners. Although fine crystalline in the as-extruded condition, all alloys are remarkably resistant against diffusional creep. It is demonstrated that this behavior can be consistently understood by extending the concept developed for the interaction between bulk dislocations and dispersoids to grain boundary dislocations.