Effects of Manganese and Zirconium Dispersoids on Strain Localization in Aluminum Alloys

Abstract

Strain localization in aluminum alloys can cause early failure of the material. Manganese and zirconium dispersoids, often present in aluminum alloys to control the grain size, have been found to be able to homogenize strain. To understand the effects of dispersoids on strain localization, a study of slip bands formed during tensile tests is carried out both experimentally and through simulations using interferometry and discrete dislocations dynamics. Simulations with various dispersoid size, volume fraction, and nature were carried out. The presence of dispersoids is proven to homogenize strain both is the experimental and numerical results.