Laser powder bed fusion process optimisation of new Al-Sc alloys

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Scandium (Sc) is an attractive alloying element in aluminum alloys for its strengthening capability emerging from the development of Al3Sc precipitates and the grain size reduction.Currently, the availability and cost of Sc is preventing its wide utilisation as alloying element. The recent announce by key mining Canadian companies of a large reserve of Sc can totally transform the availability and market reality for Sc as alloying element. This new will influence the entire field of manufacturing.In the current project, FusiA Impression 3D Métal inc. is interested in this exploratory project, to evaluate a new Sc-containing aluminum alloy in terms of processability, heat treatability and to benchmark the performance with existing high strength aluminum alloys. In the project, in addition to the strengthening potential, a specific focus will be given on the control of the grain refinement provided by the addition of Sc, to evaluate if cracking susceptibility can be reduced/suppressed. The ultimate goal for FusiA Impression 3D Métal inc. is to evaluate and if promising, integrate this new Sc-containing alloy as part of their portfolio of 3D printing solutions, once Sc becomes more readily available.The project will train 1 MEng student and 1 part-time PDF, with the participation of 1 Coop undergraduate student.