Relationship between silver concentration with microstructural and mechanical properties of rolled AlZn alloy

The relationship of Ag addition on microstructural and mechanical properties of rolled AlZn alloy was investigated. AlZn alloys were prepared by metal mould casting method and the Ag addition was done by Vortex technique. Microstructural characterization of AlZnAg specimens was analyzed by means of X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Results show that the phases of the as-cast state alloy are solid solution zinc-rich hexagonal close-packed (hcp) crystal structure, named η-phase and α-Al solid solution with Zn dissolved into the matrix. The silver concentration in AlZn alloy influences the volume of AgZn3 precipitates. The mechanical properties, especially the flow stress and elongation of the alloy were improved by the Ag addition. The Vortex method was used in order to diminish the process cost, generating an alloy with homogenous microstructure, less casting porosity and better mechanical properties.