South Bay Chapter
March 2006 Meeting Information

Microstructural Evolution and Thermal Stability of Al-Ce-Ni Ternery Eutectic

Join us this month as Dr. Eric Fodran Materials & Processes group - Northrop Grumman Corporation as he discusses novel developments in lighter weight materials to replace the more costly and heavier materials currently used, which can operate at elevated temperatures. 

Eric received his PhD in Materials Science and Engineering from the University of Florida Gainesville, in 2001, MS degree in Materials from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo in 1997, and BS in Metallurgy from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo in 1994, and is currently working on the Joint Strike Fighter program at Northrop Grumman, focusing his efforts towards process development and support of aircraft design and fabrication.

Previous studies on aluminum based binary eutectic systems have proven that the aluminum alloy system shows promising potential for satisfying the need for lighter weight materials that can operate at elevated temperaturs, and has motivated the investigation of the solidification and thermal stability of the Al-12 wt%Ce-5 wt%Ni ternary eutectic performed in this investigation.

The solidification behavior of the Al-Ce-Ni ternary eutectic was conducted via solidification of various compositions at and above the eutectic composition in a copper chill mold, thus allowing the observation of various solidification rates on a single ingot. After casting the ingots were analyzed for the composition of phases in the microstructure via X-ray diffraction, and the distribution of the phases determined by scanning electron microscopy. The thermal stability of the microstructure was also studied.

This is the latest in cutting edge technology, and is sure to be an interesting topic not to be missed.  Reservations can be made by calling Marc Kashinsky atl (805)271-2242 or via e-mail . We'll be looking forward to seeing you there.

Please continue to note the new day for our meetings, which has been permanently changed to the 4th Thursday of each month.