Effects of Cryogenic Treatment on Mechanical Properties and Corrosion Resistance of LC4 Aluminum Alloy

The hardness, compressive strength and corrosion rates of LC4 aluminum alloy in 3.5% NaCl solution before and after cryogenic treatment were measured. The microstructure, mechanical properties after cryogenic treatment and corrosion resistance of LC4 aluminum alloy were investigated. The results show that cryogenic treatment can enhance the hardness of annealed LC4 aluminum alloy. An aging treatment at 120 °C for 24 h after cryogenic treatment yielded corrosion-resistant LC4 aluminum alloy with better mechanical properties.