Influence of erbium addition on microstructure and performances of AlSi10Mg alloy prepared by selective laser melting

The effect of rare earth addition on the microstructure and mechanical performances of as-cast and wrought Al alloys has been attracting increasing attention recently. Rare earth addition has great potential in modifying the structure and improving the properties of materials. However, there are currently few reports about the effect of rare earth addition on the microstructure and performances of Al alloys prepared via selective laser melting. Here, AlSi10Mg alloys were manufactured using selective laser melting, and the effect of Er addition was investigated. The results indicate that Er addition leads to α-Al refinement and modifies the minority Si phase. The formation of the Al3Er phase induced by Er addition enhances the strength of the material. Modification of the Si phase also increases ductility. This strategy can help improve the mechanical performance of aluminum alloys prepared via selective laser melting.