Improved Properties of Light Alloys Using near-Nano and Nano-Based Materials In Spark Plasma Sintering

Near-nano and nano-grained light alloys (Al, Ti, Mg) show considerable potential for applications in the aerospace as well as a many other industries (e.g., energy, defense, and automotive).  A study is proposed to investigate the increase in mechanical properties produced by cryomilled, near-nano and nano-grained powders.   Nanocrystalline powders of light alloys (aluminum, titanium, magnesium) will be produced from cryomilling operations conducted in liquid nitrogen or argon.  Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) will be performed to consolidate the cryomilled materials, and mechanical and metallurgical testing will be performed.    The microstructural and mechanical properties of these cryomilled aluminum, titanium and magnesium alloys will be compared to conventional processed light alloys.  Initial testing indicates an increase in mechanical properties of these near-nano and nano- crystalline materials.  Several select specimens will undergo secondary processing (e.g., cold heading, extrusion) to investigate further improvements in properties.