Application of recently developed approaches to microstructural characterization and yield strength modeling of aluminum alloy AA7030

The aim of this work is to implement recently developed analytical and modeling approaches to (a) quantify the evolution of microstructure and (b) model the precipitation hardening behaviour of an AA7xxx alloy during a commercially relevant aging process. Microstructural characterization is based on the application of two different calorimetry techniques. Assuming that precipitates act as spherical obstacles to dislocation motion, a yield strength model, originally introduced for AA6xxx alloys, is used to derive the precipitate strengthening formulations. The application of the model provides accurate predictions for the evolution of the yield strength of the alloy during artificial aging. The results of both analytical and modeling activities suggest that the approaches taken in this study provide viable tools for microstructural characterization and yield strength modeling of AA7030 alloy in a commercially relevant multi-step age hardening practice.