Innovative Light Alloys for Sustainable Components

Department

Department of Management and Engineering – School of Engineering, University of Padova

Main research activities/topics/projects

The main objective of the research is the study of innovative wrought and foundry light alloys (Al and Mg) to be used for producing sustainable components with complex geometry, such as thin wall thicknesses and hollow.

The research will be in the field of Metallurgy.

The research activity will cover different aspects:

• Thermodynamic analysis and investigation of the physical/rheological properties of sustainable secondary light alloys for innovative applications.

This activity generally involves the thermodynamic investigations and the study of the physical and rheological characteristics of new secondary light alloys such as Mg and Al alloys. Software for thermodynamic analysis and for the calculation of physical characteristics and viscosity, currently available at the University of Padova, can be used. The obtained data can be validated and verified through experimental laboratory tests using the most widespread high-temperature thermal analysis (DSC) and rheology (rotational rheometer) techniques.

• Study and development of post-casting heat treatments

This activity deals with defining the methodology necessary to develop post-casting heat treatments, normally used to obtain the optimal microstructural characteristics to maximize the mechanical and chemical properties. Cast specimens can be studied at a laboratory scale using secondary light alloys. Before and during the casting phases, the chemical composition of the alloy can be measured using a mass spectrometer, the content of hydrogen dissolved in the liquid bath using dedicated probes, and the density of the metal to evaluate the initial degree of cleanliness of the alloy. The heat treatment are studied considering the process phases, such as solubilisation, quenching and ageing. After an initial thermodynamic analysis, the impact of the temperature and treatment time in the various phases of the heat treatment process itself will be analysed, at an experimental level, as well as the influence of the cooling rate during quenching on the mechanical properties.

Working language

English

Special entry requirements

Requirements:

• lab experience (metallographic preparation of samples, optical microscopy, standard foundry practice)
• computer skills (software for image analysis, software for thermodynamic calculations)

Duration in months (min-max)

PhD sandwich: 4-12