Open Access Publication

Der Beitrag mit dem Titel „Influence of localized alloy composition tailoring by laser-induced element evaporation on the mechanical properties of aluminum alloy AA7075“ wurde im Journal of Materials Processing Technology (JMPT) veröffentlicht. Der ganze Beitrag kann unter https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmatprotec.2025.118996 gelesen werden.

In light of increasing demands for energy efficiency, lightweight construction, and sustainability, aluminum is becoming increasingly important as a manufacturing material, both technologically and economically. Whether in electromobility, aerospace, or the semiconductor industry – this multifunctional lightweight metal plays a central role in almost all industrial sectors. Despite its broad application, its full property potential remains untapped. To overcome these limitations, this article presents the novel Tailor Alloyed Blanks (TAB) process, which enables local adjustment of the alloy composition in areas critical for forming. Selective evaporation of low-boiling elements (e.g., Zn, Mg) using laser beam processing allows for the targeted control of microstructure and mechanical properties. This creates locally differentiated strength and ductility profiles that significantly expand the formability of high-strength aluminum alloys, especially difficult-to-form grades such as AA7075. The studies presented here confirm the feasibility and demonstrate significant improvements in forming limits and springback behavior.

These results were obtained within the framework of the project "Tailor Alloyed Blanks - Production of high-strength, process-adapted semi-finished products through local laser-based adaptation of the alloy system" funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG).