Aircraft Aluminum Alloys: Applications and Future Trends

Within the last century aluminum alloys have played a strategic role in the manufacturing and development of lightweight aircraft structures. Years of continuous research has led to significant improvement in mechanical properties in the form of advanced 2xxx and 7xxx series alloys and the opportunity to produce more lightweight materials with advanced properties such as the last-generation Al–Li alloys. An overview of the evolution of aircraft aluminum alloys from the original Al–Cu alloys to modern nanocrystalline and hybrid aluminum alloys is presented. Basic properties and processes are featured, that define the material performance and determine their main applications in aircraft industry. Finally, novel trends in the design of aluminum alloys are considered in order to meet the future challenges of modern aircraft applications.

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