Dendritic Boundary Corrosion of AA2198 Weld Using Fiber Laser Welding with Al–Cu Filler Wire

Abstract

The microstructures and corrosion behaviors of AA2198–T851 alloy and weld were analyzed under corrosive conditions. Weld was formed using an innovative fiber laser welding process with AA2319 Al–Cu filler wire. The metallurgic morphology and distribution of the chemical compositions were determined using imaging techniques such as optical micrograph, scanning electron micrograph, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry and X-ray diffraction. Corrosion was evaluated using an immersion test and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy in 3.5% NaCl solution at room temperature. Results indicate that the parent alloy suffered from pitting corrosion during the initial 4-h immersion which was caused by the inhomogeneous distribution of its chemical components and the different intermetallics formed during the rolling process. The weld experienced dendritic boundary corrosion under the same conditions due to the addition of the Al–Cu filler and rapid solidification during laser welding, which led to the precipitates Cu enrichment along the grain boundary. When a welding joint was immersed in the solution for 5 days, a big crack was observed across the center of the weld. In comparison, there was good corrosion resistance in the heat-affected zone with a compact protective film.