A model for precipitation kinetics and strengthening in Al-Cu-Mg alloys

A physically based numerical model is developed to predict the microstructural evolution and strengthening in Al-Cu-Mg alloys during isothermal treatments. The modelling of the formation kinetics of the precipitates is based on the Kampmann and Wagner model. The strengthening by the shearable Cu:Mg co-clusters is modelled on the basis of modulus strengthening mechanism and the strengthening by the non-shearable S phase precipitates is based on the Orowan looping mechanism. The model predictions are verified by comparing with the strength and differential isothermal calorimetery data on 2024-T351 aluminium alloys. The microstructural development and strength predictions of the model are generally in good agreement with the experimental data. (c) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.