Influence of copper addition on precipitation kinetics and hardening in Al–Zn–Mg alloy

The influence of the addition of copper on the precipitation behaviour of an Al–Zn–Mg alloy at 160°C has been investigated. Phase transformation has been investigated by differential scanning calorimetry, the precipitation kinetics by small angle X-ray scattering and transmission electron microscopy, and the mechanical properties by microhardness testing. The addition of copper results in an increase in the stability of Guinier–Preston zones …