Microstructural modeling of thermomechanical processing is well established as a valuable procedure for optimizing processing conditions in the steel industry, while the similar work for aluminum industry is still an opening problem. Recovery, recrystallization and grain growth are core elements of this processing. This thesis concentrates on the recovery and recrystallization behavior of aluminum alloys with a focal point on the static softening kinetics after deformation at elevated temperatures. The aim of the project is to investigate recovery and recrystallization processes in aluminum alloys as a function of deformation condition, thermal history, composition and precipitate content, and therefore to develop a validated physical model to predict the recrystallization kinetics as a result of such processes. We performed experiment and built models to achieve this objective.
In this publication it has been shown that the use of the single grain approach provides a new insight into the recrystallization kinetics in a single phase metals after hot or cold deformation. When combined with a precipitation model it has the potential to predict the recrystallization kinetics in supersaturated alloys. The models form a strong foundation for larger scale modeling of the thermomechanical behavior of industrial aluminum alloys. However, in order to use the model for quantitative predictions, moreexperimental data on the grain boundary mobility are required.
