Examination of Intermetallic Phases in Al-Fe-Ni Alloys with Scandium

Aluminum alloys with Fe and Ni additions contain thermally stable intermetallic phases that allow for their use in elevated temperature applications. Additions of Fe and Ni also result in Al alloys with high thermal and electrical conductivity and high castability due to their low solid solubility and short freezing ranges, respectively. The addition of Sc to Al-Fe-Ni alloys can result in high strength Al-Fe-Ni alloys without significantly reduced conductivity. However, understanding of the intermetallic phases observed in Al-Fe-Ni alloys with Sc additions is limited. This research showcases the morphology of intermetallic phases observed in Al alloys with varying levels of Fe, Ni and Sc by using electron and optical microscopy. Additional results on the influence of Fe, Ni and Sc on microhardness and electrical conductivity prior to and after heat treatment are also showcased. The research aims to gain an understanding of Fe, Ni and Sc interactions for development of high strength, low density and thermally stable conductors.