Characterisation of early precipitation stages in 6xxx series aluminium alloys

Abstract

Advanced microscopy techniques such as high angular annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy and energy filtered transmission electron microscopy are being explored to study early precipitation stages of 6XXX-series aluminium alloys. Observations are combined with those from 3 dimensional atom probe studies of the same materials. GP-zones are imaged by annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy and plasmon mapping. Developed clusters are investigated and quantified by atom probe, and a high number density of clusters with a Mg/Si-ratio close to the alloy composition are confirmed to be present in the alloy. © 2006 IOP Publishing Ltd.