Papers by Author: Christophe Sigli

Abstract: The modelling of precipitation is fairly trivial in very dilute binary alloys but remains a challenge in concentrated alloys. By comparing Kinetic Monte Carlo simulations and Cluster Dynamics calculations the difficulties are identified and solutions to link these two techniques are proposed to build an efficient multi-scale procedure.

Abstract: The precipitation sequences in two Al-Li-Cu alloys with similar Cu concentration and different Li concentration have been studied by small-angle X-ray scattering using synchrotron light, in combination with transmission electron microscopy. The sequence ranges from phases formed during natural ageing to the hardening ones obtained by artificial ageing at 155°C. It is found that the low Li-containing alloy shows first Cu-rich clusters at room temperature followed by T₁ precipitates, while the high Li-containing alloy shows first δ’-Al₃Li precipitates and then formation of T1 phase in coexistence with the δ’. The influence of alloy composition on T₁ nucleation and growth kinetics is discussed in light of the experimental results.

Abstract: The present paper focuses on the influence of combined additions of Zr and Mn on the recrystallisation resistance of aluminium alloy 2198 sheet. Dual additions of these dispersoid forming elements have previously been reported to be beneficial for reducing recrystallisation during solution treatment, as they exhibit opposing microsegregation partitioning on solidification. Contrary to expectation, it was found that the addition of Mn, to a standard Zr-containing 2198 sheet material, reduced recrystallisation resistance. The reasons for this behaviour are explored by analysis of the morphology, size, chemistry, and distribution of the dispersoid families formed, as a function of the Mn and Zr level, traced back to the homogenisation stage.

Abstract: A kinetic model has been developed to simulate the precipitate size distribution and the resulting yield strength during ageing of 7xxx alloys. The η phase is the only one considered. The kinetic model is mean field: precipitates of different sizes see each other through the average solid solution. Precipitates are assumed to be homogeneous in concentration and are allowed to change chemistry. Local equilibrium is assumed at the matrix-precipitate interface; the equilibrium concentrations are corrected by the curvature effect. Values of the equilibrium concentrations at the matrix-precipitate interface are solved by an iterative method: the resulting flux for each element must be compatible with equilibrium conditions and with the changing stoechiometry of the considered precipitate while maximizing the energy gained. The yield strength is derived from the precipitate size distribution through a mixture law combining the effect of each individual precipitate. The model can take into account non-isothermal treatments and can therefore simulate complicated multi-stage ageing treatment as well as a FSW weld. Results of the model are discussed and compared measurements.

Abstract: The precipitation kinetics path in multi-component alloys may involve a competition between atomic mobilities and precipitates thermodynamic stability. Cluster dynamics modelling (CDM) is a simulation method that allows to describe this competition without introducing any heuristic assumptions as, for example, in the classical theory of nucleation. CDM consists in solving numerically, for each time increment, the master equations expressing the balance of solute exchanges (absorption and emission) between clusters/precipitates. A key issue is the energetics of the nano-clusters in the nucleation range. The computation of the precipitate size distribution function allows the complete description of the precipitates kinetic evolution, in chemical composition and in size. The method is applied to the precipitation of the Al3(Zr,Sc) L12 phase in Al solid solutions. The model predicts fairly well in the precipitation path some observed coupling effects between the two solutes, particularly during the nucleation stage.