Formation of ultrafine structure in a rapidly solidified Al-Zr alloy underthe effect of severe plastic deformation

The structure and phase composition of a rapidly solidified Al-1.5% Zr allo y were studied before and after severe plastic deformation by torsion under a high hydrostatic pressure. The strain-induced dissolution of metastable aluminides and an additional alloying of the aluminum matrix with zirconium were found. An ultrafine structure and a high hardness were shown to be ch aracteristic of the rapidly solidified material after severe plastic deform ation.