An innovative method for aluminium recycling has been boosted by research showing the microscopic changes that take place when molten alloys cool.
Researcher Dr Biao Cai from the University of Birmingham’s School of Metallurgy and Materials used sophisticated high-speed X-ray imaging to record the formation of micro-crystals as alloys cool and solidify, under a magnetic field.
A mathematical model was developed by his collaborator Dr Andrew Kao from the University of Greenwich to predict whether micro-crystals would form, and what shape they would have.
The model predicted that that helical ‘screw-like’ crystals would form under the influence of strong magnetic stirring, and the high-speed X-ray confirmed that this occurred.
These microscopic crystals ultimately determine the physical properties of the alloy. To be able to adjust their shape, structure and direction of growth will enable us to perfect processes for both manufacturing and recycling of metals and alloys
Although these elegant crystals are just micro-meters wide (ten times smaller than a human hair), they have implications for industrial-scale processes.
Biao explains: “These microscopic crystals ultimately determine the physical properties of the alloy. To be able to adjust their shape, structure and direction of growth will enable us to perfect processes for both manufacturing and recycling of metals and alloys”.
Biao has already invented technique to improve aluminium recycling by removing iron. Iron is a detrimental element that can make aluminium brittle, and limit its use in premium applications such as aircraft.
Existing methods for removing iron during recycling are either expensive or inefficient, but Biao’s simple, inexpensive technique uses magnets and a temperature gradient to remove iron contamination.
The invention has been patented by University of Birmingham Enterprise, and supported by the Midlands Innovation Commercialisation of Research Accelerator which awarded Biao a grant to build a large-scale prototype.