Selective laser melting improves mechanical properties of Al-Ce alloys

Laser melting and rapid solidification imparts specific nanostructure
Laser melting and rapid solidification imparts specific nanostructure

CMI researchers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, University of Tennessee-Knoxville and Ames Laboratory conducted the research for this highlight

Achievement 
Demonstrates that selective laser melting—a type of additive manufacturing (AM)—can  create Al-Ce alloys with superior mechanical properties not achievable with conventional processing. 

Significance and impact

  • Shows how nanostructures and enhanced mechanical properties can be achieved using additive manufacturing techniques.
  • AM Alloys can enable green technologies such as improved heat exchangers and lightweight structural components and will expand the use of cerium, stabilizing the domestic rare earth supply. 

Next steps
Further development of AM-specific Al-Ce alloys. 

Improving mechanical properties of Al-Ce alloys such as hardness
Improving mechanical properties of Al-Ce alloys such as hardness