Solidification analysis of Al-5 wt-%Cu alloy using in situ neutron diffraction

In this study, in situ neutron diffraction was used to characterise the solidification of an Al-5 wt% Cu alloy. Neutron diffraction patterns were collected in a stepwise mode during solidification between 660 and 440 degrees C. The nucleation and evolution of the primary Al phase and Al2Cu phase was successfully detected and quantified. The solid fractions of these phases were determined from the intensity of neutron diffraction peaks over the solidification interval. Furthermore, the results from neutron diffraction showed good agreement with FactSage simulations and optical and scanning electron microscopy. This study aims to better understand the solidification mechanism of Al-Cu alloys, with a view to eliminating the formation of defects during solidification and thereby, enhancing the use of Al-Cu alloys in industrial applications.