Microstructure Control of Al-Ce Alloys:‎ A Review

Abstract

The recent research on Al-alloys focuses on the systems that contain intermetallic precipitates with hightemperature stability. Hence using rare earth elements to achieve this purpose minimizes the advantage of conventional casting as one of the most economical fabrication processes, an alternative way becomes mandatory. In this regard, the group of Al-Ce alloys is currently receiving attention as the most suitable high-temperature candidate among the other Al-alloys. These alloys are characterized by their stability at high temperatures. Moreover, Ce is the most abundant rare earth element, which is beneficial in economics. In the current review, the metallurgy of Al-Ce alloys and the methods used to modify their microstructures are discussed. Special attention is given to melt solidification under ultrasonic vibrations as an efficient method to control the shape and size of Al 11 Ce 3 intermetallic particles and hence enhance the mechanical properties of the alloys. Future trends and prospects of these promising alloys are also presented.

Solidification Processing of Al-Ce Alloys for High-Temperature Applications

“…It has been reported that this phase is the essential intermetallic phase that controls the high-temperature properties of Al-Ce alloys [11,13]. Several investigations worked on modifying the shape of the secondary Ce-intermetallic phases [12] through either chemical modification [14], rapid solidification [13,15], or applying mechanical/magnetic stirring [16], as well as, most recently, via solidification under ultrasonic vibrations [17]. Among these processes, those related to solidification processing are the most efficient.…”