Research Projects
Aluminium
Understanding and Modelling the Interactions Between Deformation and Precipitation in Aluminium Alloys
This research primarily involves studying and simulating the effect of deformation during warm or cold forming on the precipitation process that strengthens age-hardenable aluminium alloys. Models describing the effect of deformation on precipitation kinetics will be developed and incorporated into an integrated crystal plasticity framework being developed in the LightForm programme. This integrated modelling tool will eventually be used to help develop process routes and compositions to improve aluminium alloy formability and enable increased tolerance to recycled content. The project will also combine advanced experimental techniques such as electron microscopy and small angle X-ray scattering with models for plasticity and precipitation.