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Send EmailAlSc Alloy, Aluminum-Scandium Alloy, AlSc, 7429-90-5, 7440-20-2
Product Name: AlSc Alloy
Chemical Composition: Aluminum (Al) + Scandium (Sc)
Alloy System: Al-Sc binary alloy system
Primary Use: Aerospace, automotive, sports equipment, high-strength and lightweight structures
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Aluminum-Scandium Alloy (AlSc) |
| Alloy System | Al-Sc binary alloy |
| Alloy Type | High-strength lightweight alloy, thermally stable alloy |
| Main Components | Aluminum (Al), Scandium (Sc) |
| Microstructure | Al matrix with finely dispersed Al₃Sc dispersoids |
| Primary Application | Aerospace structural parts, automotive components, sports equipment |
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION AND EXPLANATION:
Aluminum-Scandium (AlSc) alloy is a high-strength, lightweight metal alloy obtained by adding controlled amounts of scandium to an aluminum matrix. Scandium is one of the most effective strengthening elements in aluminum alloys, forming finely dispersed Al₃Sc (L1₂ structure) particles that impart extraordinary mechanical properties to the alloy.
AlSc alloys offer significantly higher strength compared to conventional aluminum alloys, along with excellent thermal stability. Scandium addition substantially refines the grain structure, stabilizes grain boundaries, and maintains mechanical properties at elevated temperatures (up to 300°C). These properties make AlSc alloys particularly suitable for applications where weight savings and high strength are critical, such as aerospace, automotive, and high-performance sports equipment.
Scandium has limited solubility in aluminum and precipitates from supersaturated solid solution to form the Al₃Sc (L1₂ structure) phase. These finely distributed dispersoids effectively inhibit grain boundary motion, limiting grain growth and maintaining mechanical properties at high temperatures. Additionally, Al₃Sc particles impede dislocation motion, providing high strength at room temperature. This dual-action strengthening mechanism makes AlSc alloys ideal for applications requiring high-temperature strength and light weight.
| Element | Content (wt%) | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Aluminum (Al) | ≥ 99.0 | Matrix main element |
| Scandium (Sc) | 0.1 – 0.5 | Alloying element; Al₃Sc dispersoid former |
| Other Impurities | ≤ 0.5 | Iron, silicon, etc. |
CHEMICAL COMPOSITION EXPLANATION:
The chemical composition of AlSc alloy is designed to contain high-purity aluminum (≥99.0%) and controlled amounts of scandium (0.1-0.5%). The scandium addition aims to significantly increase mechanical strength while maintaining aluminum's lightweight properties. Scandium content at these levels ensures fine and homogeneous distribution of Al₃Sc dispersoids, refining the grain structure, inhibiting grain growth, and providing superior mechanical properties.
| Property | Value | Unit | Explanation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Density | ~2.70 | g/cm³ | Comparable to pure aluminum |
| Melting Point | ~660 | °C | Close to pure aluminum |
| Electrical Conductivity | 55 – 60 | %IACS | High conductivity maintained |
| Thermal Expansion Coefficient | 23.6 | µm/m·K | At 20-100°C range |
| Thermal Conductivity | ~200 | W/m·K | At room temperature |
| Electrical Resistivity | ~0.030 | μΩ·m | At 20°C |
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES EXPLANATION:
AlSc alloy maintains lightweight properties with a density of ~2.70 g/cm³, comparable to pure aluminum. This low density provides weight savings in aerospace and automotive applications, directly contributing to fuel efficiency and performance.
Melting point is ~660°C, near the melting temperature of aluminum. Electrical conductivity of 55-60% IACS shows that scandium addition has limited impact on conductivity. Thermal expansion coefficient is 23.6 µm/m·K, reflecting aluminum's characteristic thermal behavior. Thermal conductivity of ~200 W/m·K is good.
| Property | Value Range | Unit | Explanation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength (Rm) | 400 – 600 | MPa | Depends on heat treatment condition |
| Yield Strength (Rp0.2) | 250 – 400 | MPa | 0.2% permanent strain limit |
| Elongation (A) | 8 – 15 | % | Fracture elongation |
| Hardness (HB) | 80 – 120 | HB | Brinell hardness |
| Elastic Modulus | ~70 | GPa | E-modulus |
| High Temperature Strength | Maintained up to 300°C | °C | Due to Al₃Sc dispersoids |
| Fatigue Strength | Excellent | - | Due to fine grain structure |
MECHANICAL PROPERTIES EXPLANATION:
The mechanical properties of AlSc alloy are at superior levels among aluminum alloys. Tensile strength ranges from 400-600 MPa, yield strength from 250-400 MPa, with elongation of 8-15%. Hardness is in the range of 80-120 HB. These mechanical properties provide significantly higher strength compared to many conventional aluminum alloys while maintaining sufficient ductility for forming and processing operations.
The most important mechanical advantage of AlSc alloy is the retention of mechanical properties at elevated temperatures. Finely distributed Al₃Sc dispersoids inhibit grain boundary motion, limiting grain growth and minimizing the reduction in tensile and yield strength at temperatures up to 300°C. This property makes the alloy particularly suitable for applications operating under high temperature and thermal loads, such as aerospace components.
Additionally, the fine grain structure provides excellent fatigue strength, which is a critical advantage for structural parts subjected to cyclic loading.
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Matrix Structure | Aluminum solid solution |
| Dispersoid Phase | Al₃Sc (L1₂ structure) |
| Dispersoid Size | Very fine distribution (nanometer scale) |
| Grain Size | Significantly refined by scandium |
| Grain Growth Resistance | Al₃Sc dispersoids pin grain boundaries |
| High Temperature Strength | Mechanical properties maintained up to 300°C |
| Thermal Stability Mechanism | Al₃Sc dispersoids inhibit grain growth and dislocation motion |
MICROSTRUCTURE AND THERMAL STABILITY EXPLANATION:
The microstructure of AlSc alloy consists of very finely distributed Al₃Sc (L1₂ structure) dispersoids within an aluminum solid solution matrix. Since scandium has limited solubility in aluminum, this dispersoid phase forms through precipitation from supersaturated solid solution. Nanoscale Al₃Sc particles physically inhibit grain boundary motion, effectively limiting grain growth, while also blocking dislocation motion to provide strengthening.
This dual-action mechanism gives AlSc alloy superior thermal stability and room temperature strength compared to conventional aluminum alloys. Scandium addition also significantly refines the grain structure, creating a fine-grained microstructure. The grain structure is maintained at elevated temperatures (up to 300°C), and the reduction in mechanical properties is minimized. This property is a critical advantage for long-term performance and reliability, especially in aerospace applications.
| Property | Evaluation | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Weldability | Excellent | Scandium addition provides superior weldability |
| Corrosion Resistance | High | Similar to or better than pure aluminum |
| Thermal Stability | High | Al₃Sc dispersoids prevent grain growth |
| Machinability | Good | Similar to standard aluminum alloys |
| Formability | Good | Suitable for cold and hot forming |
| Castability | Medium | Can be produced by casting methods |
| Heat Treatment Response | Excellent | Strength can be increased by aging |
| Recyclability | High | Suitable for scrap recycling |
WORKABILITY AND PROPERTIES EXPLANATION:
Weldability: AlSc alloy exhibits excellent weldability due to scandium addition. Scandium prevents grain growth during welding, maintaining fine grain structure in the weld zone. This minimizes strength loss in welded joints and maintains structural integrity. Can be successfully welded by TIG, MIG, and resistance welding methods.
Corrosion Resistance: AlSc alloy shows high corrosion resistance, performing similar to or better than pure aluminum. The natural oxide layer of aluminum can become more stable with scandium addition.
Thermal Stability: Scandium addition enhances thermal stability by preventing grain growth at elevated temperatures. This property allows the alloy to maintain mechanical properties up to 300°C, significantly exceeding conventional aluminum alloys (typically 150-200°C).
Heat Treatment Response: AlSc alloy responds excellently to aging heat treatment. Precipitation of Al₃Sc dispersoids can significantly increase strength.
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Aerospace Structural Parts | Aircraft fuselages, wing structures, landing gear, satellite components |
| High-Performance Sports Equipment | Bicycle frames, golf clubs, tennis rackets, archery equipment |
| Automotive Components | Lightweight and durable structural parts, chassis components, engine parts |
| Weldable High-Strength Parts | Welded structures, pressure vessels, pipelines |
| Defense Industry | Light armored vehicles, missile bodies, military equipment |
| Space Technologies | Satellite structures, rocket components, spacecraft parts |
| Marine Applications | Lightweight and corrosion-resistant marine structures |
APPLICATION AREAS EXPLANATION:
AlSc alloy is preferred in applications requiring high strength-to-weight ratio, excellent weldability, and superior thermal stability:
Aerospace Structural Parts: AlSc alloy is used in aircraft fuselages, wing structures, landing gear, and satellite components. The high strength-to-weight ratio improves fuel efficiency and extends range.
High-Performance Sports Equipment: Bicycle frames, golf clubs, tennis rackets, and archery equipment benefit from the combination of lightweight and durability provided by AlSc alloy.
Automotive Components: Used in lightweight and durable structural parts, chassis components, and engine parts, reducing vehicle weight and improving fuel efficiency.
Weldable High-Strength Parts: In welded structures, pressure vessels, and pipelines, the excellent weldability provided by scandium maintains structural integrity.
| Property | AlSc Alloy | 7075 (Al-Zn) | 2024 (Al-Cu) | 6061 (Al-Mg-Si) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Density (g/cm³) | ~2.70 | 2.80 | 2.78 | 2.70 |
| Tensile Strength (MPa) | 400-600 | 570-620 | 470-500 | 310-370 |
| Yield Strength (MPa) | 250-400 | 500-550 | 320-360 | 276-300 |
| Elongation (%) | 8-15 | 7-11 | 10-15 | 10-17 |
| Weldability | Excellent | Poor | Poor | Good |
| Corrosion Resistance | High | Medium | Poor | High |
| Thermal Stability (≤°C) | 300 | 120-150 | 150-200 | 150-200 |
| Fatigue Strength | Excellent | Medium | Medium | Medium |
COMPARATIVE EXPLANATION:
AlSc alloy offers significant advantages when compared with other high-strength aluminum alloys:
Comparison with 7075 (Al-Zn): AlSc achieves comparable tensile strength levels to 7075 while offering much better weldability and corrosion resistance. AlSc also shows significantly better thermal stability (300°C vs 120-150°C).
Comparison with 2024 (Al-Cu): AlSc offers higher or equivalent strength compared to 2024 while providing superior corrosion resistance and excellent weldability.
Comparison with 6061 (Al-Mg-Si): AlSc offers significantly higher strength than 6061 (400-600 MPa vs 310-370 MPa) and much better thermal stability.
These comparative advantages make AlSc alloy an ideal choice for high-performance aerospace, automotive, and sports equipment applications.
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Storage Conditions | Store in dry and clean environment |
| Storage Temperature | Ambient (room temperature) |
| Protection | Protect from moisture, acids, and bases |
| Dust Explosion Risk | Aluminum dust can be explosive |
| Ventilation | Provide adequate ventilation during processing |
| Protective Equipment | Dust mask, safety goggles, work gloves |
| Handling Notes | Avoid dust formation during processing |
STORAGE AND SAFETY EXPLANATION:
Storage: AlSc alloy should be stored in a dry and clean environment, protected from moisture and chemicals. Products should be kept in original packaging or appropriate containers.
Dust Explosion Risk: Fine metal dust generated during processing of aluminum-containing materials can form explosive mixtures in air under certain conditions. Adequate ventilation should be provided and dust prevention measures should be taken during processing.
Protective Equipment: During machining, grinding, or cutting of AlSc alloy, dust mask (particle filter), safety goggles, and work gloves should be used.
SUMMARY:
Aluminum-Scandium (AlSc) alloy is a high-strength, lightweight metal alloy obtained by adding controlled amounts (0.1-0.5%) of scandium to an aluminum matrix. It has a density of ~2.70 g/cm³, melting point of ~660°C, and electrical conductivity of 55-60% IACS. Scandium addition refines the grain structure, inhibits grain growth, and provides high-temperature strength and thermal stability through the formation of Al₃Sc dispersoids.
Mechanical properties: tensile strength 400-600 MPa, yield strength 250-400 MPa, elongation 8-15%, hardness 80-120 HB. Mechanical properties are maintained at elevated temperatures (up to 300°C). Weldability is excellent; corrosion resistance is high.
Main application areas: aerospace structural parts, high-performance sports equipment, automotive components, weldable high-strength parts, defense industry, and space technologies. Store in dry and clean environments; use adequate ventilation and protective equipment during processing due to aluminum dust explosion risk.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Aluminum-Scandium Alloy (AlSc) |
| Alloy Type | High-strength lightweight alloy |
| Density | ~2.70 g/cm³ |
| Melting Point | ~660°C |
| Electrical Conductivity | 55-60% IACS |
| Tensile Strength | 400-600 MPa |
| Yield Strength | 250-400 MPa |
| Thermal Stability | Up to 300°C |
| Industry | Applications |
|---|---|
| Aerospace | Aircraft fuselages, wing structures, landing gear |
| Sports Equipment | Bicycle frames, golf clubs, tennis rackets |
| Automotive | Lightweight structural parts, chassis components |
| Defense | Light armored vehicles, missile bodies |
| Space Technologies | Satellite structures, rocket components |
STORAGE: Store in dry and clean environment
DUST EXPLOSION: Aluminum dust can be explosive; provide adequate ventilation during processing
PPE: Dust mask, safety goggles, work gloves should be used
PROCESSING: Avoid dust formation; prefer closed systems
Superior Strength-to-Weight Ratio: AlSc alloy offers one of the highest strength-to-weight ratios among aluminum alloys with tensile strength of 400-600 MPa. This property provides weight savings in aerospace and automotive applications, improving fuel efficiency and performance.
Excellent Weldability: Scandium addition prevents grain growth during welding, maintaining fine grain structure in the weld zone. This makes AlSc alloy significantly superior to other high-strength aluminum alloys (7075, 2024) for welded structures.
High Thermal Stability: AlSc alloy maintains mechanical properties up to 300°C, significantly exceeding conventional aluminum alloys (typically 150-200°C). This property is critical for aerospace and automotive components operating at high temperatures.
Fine-Grained Microstructure: Scandium addition significantly refines the alloy's grain structure. The fine-grained structure provides a combination of high strength and ductility, enhancing overall material performance.
Al₃Sc Dispersoid Strengthening: Al₃Sc particles provide dual-action strengthening by both pinning grain boundaries and blocking dislocation motion. This mechanism provides high strength at room temperature and superior thermal stability at elevated temperatures.
Aluminum Dust Safety: Aluminum dust generated during processing of AlSc alloy can be explosive. Adequate ventilation and dust control measures must be taken.
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: This Technical Data Sheet (TDS) is for informational purposes only and is prepared based on available technical data. The information provided is believed to be accurate. However, the user is solely responsible for determining the product's suitability for their specific applications and for complying with all applicable local, national, and international regulations and safety requirements. For complete safety, storage, handling, transport, waste, and regulatory compliance information, please refer to the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier. Users are obligated to test the product in their own processes and applications. All occupational health and safety rules must be observed when working with AlSc alloy.