Multiscale characterization of dislocation processes in Al 5754

Multiscale characterization was performed on an Al–Mg alloy, Al 5754 O-temper, including <i>in situ</i> mechanical deformation in both the scanning electron microscope and the transmission electron microscope. Scanning electron microscopy characterization showed corresponding inhomogeneity in the dislocation and Mg distribution, with higher levels of Mg correlating with elevated levels of dislocation density. At the nanoscale, <i>in situ</i> transmission electron microscopy straining experiments showed that dislocation propagation through the Al matrix is characterized by frequent interactions with obstacles smaller than the imaging resolution that resulted in the formation of dislocation debris in the form of dislocation loops. <i>Post</i>-<i>mortem</i> chemical characterization and comparison to dislocation loop behaviour in an Al–Cr alloy suggests that these obstacles are small Mg clusters. Previous theoretical work and indirect experimental evidence have suggested that these Mg nanoclusters are important factors contributing to strain instabilities in Al–Mg alloys. This study provides direct experimental characterization of the interaction of glissile dislocations with these nanoclusters and the stress needed for dislocations to overcome them.