Stress Corrosion Cracking Susceptibility of Additively Manufactured Aluminum Alloy 7050 Produced by Selective Laser Melting in Chloride Environments

The article investigates the stress corrosion cracking (SCC) susceptibility of additively manufactured Aluminum Alloy 7050 produced by selective laser melting (SLM) in chloride environments. It examines the influence of alloy composition, heat treatment, and microstructural features on SCC behavior, comparing the performance of SLM-produced alloys with traditionally wrought materials. The study highlights the role of Ti-Al-based particles in promoting an equiaxed grain structure and enhancing resistance to SCC in chloride environments. The research also demonstrates that the presence of hydrogen peroxide significantly increases SCC susceptibility, particularly for overaged alloys. The findings provide valuable insights into the corrosion behavior of SLM-produced aluminum alloys, contributing to the development of more resistant materials for aerospace and defense applications.