About this Abstract |
| Meeting |
2026 TMS Annual Meeting & Exhibition
|
| Symposium
|
Phase Transformations and Microstructural Evolution
|
| Presentation Title |
Microstructural Control for Aluminum Alloys Strengthened by a Novel Rhombicuboctahedron (RCO) Phase |
| Author(s) |
Elizabeth Heon, Max L Neveau, William Wathen, Jonathan Martinez , Emma Counce, William Meier, David Weiss, Matthew F Chisholm, Eric A Lass, Gerd Duscher |
| On-Site Speaker (Planned) |
Elizabeth Heon |
| Abstract Scope |
Alloying is a principal method for strengthening metal alloys, but typically does not improve an alloy’s elastic modulus. In this talk we report on a newly discovered multi-component, high symmetry, isotropic intermetallic phase - which we call the rhombicuboctahedron (RCO) phase based on its observed morphology – which enhanced the elastic modulus of a cast aluminum alloy to 91.5±7.4 GPa, exceeding leading Al alloys, steels, and Ti alloys. Using a novel technique known as Flux Growth Nucleation Casting (FGNC) we can control the size and density of the RCO particle distribution. Compositional adjustments provide an additional path to microstructural control. Aluminum alloys strengthened with RCO possess desirable mechanical properties and are a promising class of materials for medium temperature (250-300oC) applications, where conventional Al alloys possess insufficient strength. |
| Proceedings Inclusion? |
Planned: |
| Keywords |
Aluminum, Mechanical Properties, |