Modification of the silicon phase and mechanical properties in Al-40Zn-6Si alloy with Eu addition

The influence of Eu additions upon the silicon phase and mechanical properties of Al-40Zn-6Si alloys have been investigated via scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM). The primary Si was discovered to be remarkably refined and modified to nodular with 0.5% Eu addition. Meanwhile, the plate-like eutectic Si was modified to a fibrous structure. The effect of Eu on...