Control of second-phase particles in the Al-Mg-Mn alloy AA 5083

The purpose of the present work is to understand the evolution of microstructure and microchemistry during homogenization of the Al-Mg-Mn alloy AA 5083 (Al Mg4.5 Mn0.7) and its influence on down-stream materials properties. The evolution of the particle state during solidification and subsequent homogenization annealing was tracked with a variety of experimental characterization methods and simulated with microchemistry models to analyse the changes in solute level and precipitation. Different homogenization practices were characterized by different sizes, volumes and densities of dispersoids which, in turn, had a clear impact on materials properties, including recrystallization behaviour and flow stress.