Effect of rhenium (Re) addition on the microstructure evolution, electrical conductivity and tensile properties of Al–Mg–Si alloy

Key Points

• Improved electrical conductivity and tensile properties were observed with increased rhenium levels in the alloy.
• Electrical conductivity increased by 15% with a 2% addition of rhenium to the alloy formulation.
• Analysis of microstructure evolution demonstrated grain refinement due to rhenium addition.
• These results suggest the potential for optimizing aluminum alloys for better industrial applications.