3D study of intermetallic networks in rolled commercial Aluminium alloys with increased recycled content

By the industrial production of aluminium alloys an increase in the recycled content using scrap is desired. This reduces the carbon footprint, creates a close loop of recyclability and can reduce costs. Understanding the morphology evolution and distribution of different phases in rolled aluminium sheets depending on the processing parameters is key to tailor the microstructure to reduce detrimental phases and improve mechanical properties of these alloys even with larger recycling content. With 3D microtomography we have a great advantage compared to standard methods like SEM, as we have a much larger statistic and can evaluate clustering and networks of particles. Specially for the most detrimental intermetallic phase, the beta-phase, nanotomography is required to be able study their morphology, structure and network. This way we can understand under which production conditions the material properties can be improved.