In the present work, a new processing route for establishing functional property gradient in age-hardenable Al-alloy systems is devised and the feasibility of this process route is demonstrated. Two age-hardenable Al-alloys, namely, Al-5Zn-1Mg and Al-4.6Cu alloys are used as model alloy systems. The processing method involves producing a microstructural gradient in the initial homogeneous material without altering the composition of the bulk. Transmission electron microscopic studies at different layers of FGMs confirm the evolution of graded microstructure across the specimen cross-section. The established microstructural gradient in the material leads to a property gradient in terms of hardness and thereby yield strength for both the alloy systems, which is confirmed through hardness measurements.
展开▼
