Atomic-scale analysis of light alloys using atom probe tomography

Abstract

The present paper reviews recent progress in atomic-scale characterisation of composition and nanostructure of light alloy materials using the technique of atom probe tomography. In particular, the present review will highlight atom-by-atom analysis of solid solution architecture, including solute clustering and short-range order, with reference to current limitations of spatial resolution and detector efficiency of atom probe tomography and methods to address these limitations. This leads to discussion of prediction of mechanical properties by simulation and modelling of the strengthening effect exerted by solute clusters and the role of experimental atom probe data to assist in this process. The unique contribution of atom probe tomography to the study of corrosion and hydrogen embrittlement of light alloys will also be discussed as well as a brief insight into its potential application for the investigation of solute strengthening of twinning in Mg alloys.

Keywords:

• Atom probe tomography
• Light alloys
• Atomic-scale microstructure
• Solute clustering
• Short-range order
• Solute strengthening

Acknowledgements

T. Dorin and N. Stanford are warmly thanked for review of the draft manuscript.