Dynamic deep etching and particle extraction for high-strength aluminum alloys

Abstract

Aluminum alloys contain many phases that can form during different processing steps. Their type, size, and morphology have a significant influence on various properties of the alloys. Thus, the determination of all their geometrical features is very important. Knowing the 3D particle shapes is essential not only for choosing the best processing routes for conventional alloys but also for designing new alloys. A patented procedure of dynamic deep etching and extraction of particles was used for analyzing particles in quasicrystalline aluminum alloys and several high-strength aluminum alloys. The mode and sequence of individual stages of the procedure enabled the uniform dissolution of aluminum matrix throughout the entire volume of a specimen. An ultrasonic treatment facilitated the penetration of the electrolyte into the specimen. The results were deep-etch and powder samples that enabled thorough characterization of particles using different techniques.