3D microscale strain heterogeneities and damage evolution in a new additively manufactured Al-Alloy: effect of heat treatment

The main objective of this proposal is to investigate the effect of heat treatment on the 3D microscale strain heterogeneities and damage evolution in a new Al-Alloy processed by laser-power bed fusion process (L-PBF). The microstructure and mechanical response of this new alloy can be further optimized through post-fabrication heat treatment. Thus, we plan to study various conditions: as-fabricated and heat treated. We will link the strain field heterogeneities to the defect population evolution and the intermetallics (also called secondary-phase particles) local characteristics (shape, size, distribution) in this new Al-alloy using X-ray holotomography while performing interrupted in-situ tensile tests at room temperature.