Title
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Real-time atomic scale imaging of nanostructural evolution in aluminum alloys
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Author
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Abstract
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We present a new approach to study the three-dimensional compositional and structural evolution of metal alloys during heat treatments such as commonly used for improving overall material properties. It relies on in situ heating in a high-resolution scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM). The approach is demonstrated using a commercial Al alloy AA2024 at 100-240 degrees C, showing in unparalleled detail where and how precipitates nucleate, grow,or dissolve. The observed size evolution of individual precipitates enables a separation between nucleation and growth phenomena, necessary for the development of refined growth models. We conclude that the in situ heating STEM approach opens a route to a much faster determination of the interplay between local compositions, heat treatments, microstructure, and mechanical properties of new alloys. |
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Language
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English
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Source (journal)
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Nano letters / American Chemical Society. - Washington
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Publication
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Washington
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2014
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ISSN
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1530-6984
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DOI
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10.1021/NL404565J
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Volume/pages
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14
:1
(2014)
, p. 384-389
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ISI
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000329586700061
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Full text (Publisher's DOI)
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Full text (publisher's version - intranet only)
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