Study of the early stages of clustering in Al–Mg–Si alloys using the electrical resistivity measurements

The natural ageing of Al–0.5%Mg–1%Si alloy at low temperatures, namely, −20, 0, RT and 50°C, is investigated through the use of the electrical resistivity measurements and positron annihilation spectroscopy. It was found that over extended periods of time, the resistivity increases linearly with the logarithm of time. More importantly, three clear stages of clustering were observed during natural ageing. The possible origin of these three …