Grain Boundary Microstructure-Controlled Superplasticity in Al-Li-Cu-Mg-Zr Alloy

Grain boundary microstructure-controlled superplasticity in an Al–Li alloy is discussed on the basis of OIM observations using the specimens with different grain boundary microstructures. The specimens having the homogeneous {110} textured grains with a high frequency of low-angle boundaries showed superplasticity, whereas the specimen having a heterogeneous and randomly oriented grains with a high frequency of random boundaries did not yield superplasticity. Cavities were preferentially formed at the triple junctions where two or three random boundaries interconnected. From those results, the optimum grain boundary microstructure for superplasticity is discussed in connection with the relationship between grain boundary character distribution (GBCD) and triple junction character distribution. The strain rate change tests were carried out during deformation in order to rejuvenate initially introduced optimal grain boundary microstructure. The superplasticity can be improved by the strain rate change test resulting in an increase of the frequency of low angle boundaries at the early work softening stage of deformation.