Metallographic inspection of aluminum‑scandium alloys is critical for ensuring their high‑performance applications. It serves as an indispensable quality control method for process monitoring, parameter optimization, and reliable use in aerospace, high‑end equipment, and other advanced fields.

As one of the most effective microalloying elements for strengthening aluminum alloys, scandium significantly refines grains and forms thermodynamically stable nano‑sized Al₃Sc precipitates. These precipitates pin dislocations, suppress recrystallization, and greatly improve strength, toughness, and thermal stability.

Systematic metallographic analysis directly evaluates grain refinement, measures α‑Al matrix grain size, and observes the morphology, distribution, and quantity of secondary phases (especially Al₃Sc). These microstructural features determine the alloy’s mechanical and service performance.

Sample Preparation Procedure

1️⃣ P800 SiC paper

2️⃣ P1200 SiC paper

3️⃣ P2000 SiC paper

4️⃣ P2500 SiC paper

5️⃣ YS‑JP + 3 μm diamond polishing suspension

6️⃣ ZN‑ZP + 50 nm silica colloidal suspension (SO‑A439)

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