The Intelligent Design of Age Hardenable Wrought Aluminum Alloys

This paper describes a new approach for the design of improved age‐hardenable wrought aluminum alloys. We use as an example our current research program directed towards developing an Al‐Cu‐Mg‐X aluminum alloy for moderate temperature applications. The process involves extensive empirical research, theoretical simulation and modeling, first principle atomistic calculations, calculated phase diagrams and quantitative analytical techniques. We believe that the approach will lead to streamlined alloy design and therefore aid in the early insertion of new high performance materials. We will not cover alloy development being conducted elsewhere. A new approach for the design of improved age‐hardenable wrought aluminum alloys is described. As an example, Al‐Cu‐Mg‐X aluminum alloy for moderate temperature applications was selected. The process involves extensive empirical research, theoretical simulation and modeling, first principle atomistic calculations, calculated phase diagrams and quantitative analytical techniques. The approach will lead to streamlined alloy design and therefore aid in the early insertion of new high performance materials.