Effect of Composition on Microstructural Evolution during Homogenization of 7XXX Alloys

Abstract: The effect of composition on microstructure both at the length scale of the secondary dendrite arm spacing and nano-sized dispersoids during homogenization of Al-Zn-Cu-Mg-Zr alloys has been studied. A comprehensive model that can predict the microstructure at both the length scales has been used for the study. The microstructure predicted has been compared to that for two homogenized samples from a directionally solidified AA7050 sample and a reasonable match has been found. The initial as-cast microstructure for different compositions is calculated using Scheil type solidification from Thermo-Calc. The initial microstructure has a considerable influence on microstructural evolution during homogenization. To take advantage of the decreased solid solubility of Zr in {\alpha}-fcc, cooling rates during solidification must be high enough to prevent precipitation of primary Al3Zr. Under solidification with industrial cooling conditions solute rich alloys leads to fewer dispersoids. Based on the study, an improved composition range of 6-8%Zn, 1-2%Cu, 1-2%Mg and 0.1-0.15%Zr for 7XXX alloys has been proposed.