Fracture behavior in AlLi alloys: role of grain boundary δ

Abstract In order to determine independently the roles of (i) grain boundary δ precipitates and (ii) shearable matrix δ′ precipitates in promoting low ductility in AlLi alloys, three sets of samples of Al-10.7at.%Li-0.22at.%Mn were aged at 177°C and the single-edge-notched slow bend Charpy toughnesses and yield strengths determined. The first set of samples was as-quenched alloy while the second and third sets of samples were those previously peak aged or overaged and then reverted at 330°C to redissolve the matrix δ′ while leaving the grain boundary δ. The results showed that the retained grain boundary δ had a very major role in promoting grain boundary fracture, even in the absence of any δ′.