Microstructure of Al-5Ti-1B-1RE nanoribbon and its refining efficiency on as-cast A356 alloys

The novel Al-5Ti-1B-1RE nanoribbons were synthesized by melt-spinning. The microstructure showed that the Al-5Ti-1B-1RE nanoribbon consisted of granular-like TiB2 and core-shell-like TiAl3/Ti2Al20Ce. The Al-5Ti-1B-1RE nanoribbon could give rise to the excellent refining effect on as-cast A356 alloys. The refining efficiency and formation mechanism of Al-5Ti-1B-1RE nanoribbons were investigated. In accordance with the experimental results, it could be seen that the Al-5Ti-1B-1RE nanoribbon could maintain the refining effect after 60 min of holding. Additionally, owing to the addition of Al-5Ti-1B-1RE nanoribbon, the mechanical properties of A356 alloys could be enhanced significantly.