Influence of tungsten nanoparticles on the structure and mechanical behavior of the 1550 aluminum alloy under quasi-static loading

Aluminum alloys are widely used in industry due to such parameters as low cost, high corrosion resistance, low density, and good weldability. In this regard, new aluminum alloys with improved strength and operational properties are needed. At present, it is important to increase strength properties of aluminum alloys by introducing into their melt high-melting high-modulus nano- and microparticles that can significantly refine the grain structure and contribute to the stress-strain state. As a rule, in works on the introduction of pre-synthesized refractory dispersed particles into aluminum melts, non-metallic materials, such as oxides, nitrides, carbides, and intermetallic compounds, are used. However, the effect of high-melting tungsten particles on the structure and physical and mechanical properties of aluminum alloys has been insufficiently studied.
The paper investigates the effect of tungsten nanoparticles on the structure and mechanical properties of an AA5056 alloy. The structures of the AA5056-W composite and initial alloy are studied by means of optical and scanning electron microscopy. Introduction of 0.5 wt% tungsten nanoparticles does not modify the structure of the aluminum alloy, but due to dispersed hardening, it increases the hardness, yield stress, ultimate strength, and maximum deformation before metal matrix destruction.