Dynamic response of AA7075 aluminum alloy as a function of temperature

The dynamic behavior of a commercial 7075 aluminum alloy was studied as a function of temperature. The dynamic stress-strain response of the 7075 aluminum alloy at 2100 s^-1 can be characterized by responses in two distinct temperature regimes: (1) athermal strain hardening dominates at temperatures ≤200°C and (2) thermally activated recovery dominates at temperatures ≥300°C. The largest drop in the dynamic flow stress with temperature was seen to occur at temperatures between 200°C and 300°C and the smallest at temperatures above 300°C. Guiner-Preston (GP) zones and η' precipitates are the major strengthening components for the dynamic loading of the 7075 aluminum alloy. Strain localization leading to instabilities and adiabatic heating appears to have a significant impact on the dynamic response of the 7075 aluminum alloy, particularly at the lower test temperatures.