Effects of Ag on microstructure and mechanical properties of 2519 aluminum alloy

The effects of Ag on the microstructure and mechanical properties of 2519 aluminum alloy were investigated by means of tensile test, micro-hardness test, transmission electron microscope and scanning electron microscope. The results show that the addition of 0.3% (mass fraction) Ag accelerates 2519 aluminum alloy's age-hardening, increases its peak hardness and reduces 4 h of peak aged time at 180°C. The addition of 0.3% (mass fraction) Ag increses the tensile strength at room temperature and elevated temperature. This increment at room temperature and 200°C is 24 MPa and 78 MPa, respectively. In contrast, the elongation of 2519 aluminum alloy is decreased with Ag addition. The increase of tensile strength of 2519 aluminum alloy with Ag addition is attributed to the high volume fraction of Ω phase.