Differential Thermal Analysis and Differential Scanning Calorimetry Studies of Aluminum 3003 Alloys with Zn and Cu Additions

The effect of Zn additions in the range of 0 to 5 wt pct and Cu contents of 0.15 to 1.0 wt pct on the solidification and precipitation behavior of aluminum alloys of AA 3003 type was investigated with differential thermal analysis (DTA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), optical microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy/energy-dispersive X-ray (SEM/EDX). The results show that the additions of varying Zn and Cu have significant effects on the crystallization process, phase precipitation, and microstructure formation of the alloys. Phases formed have been identified and morphological differences have been discussed.