Russian scientists develop heat-resistant aluminium alloy for next-generation vehicles

Researchers from National University of Science and Technology MISIS (NUST MISIS) have developed a new aluminium alloy containing calcium and titanium that demonstrates improved heat and wear resistance. The innovation is designed for use in future vehicle models and could contribute to the production of lighter and more durable automotive components, according to the website of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation.

Traditional aluminium–silicon alloys remain widely used in manufacturing due to their favourable casting properties, low density and relatively low cost. However, such materials typically have limited plasticity, which restricts their ability to withstand impact loads and complex deformation during operation. Scientists proposed an alternative material based on an aluminium–calcium system enhanced with titanium.

"We have discovered a new compound containing aluminium, calcium and titanium. When the melt solidifies, a triple compact phase is formed instead of coarse and brittle crystals, which impair the deformability of alloys," explained one of the project’s authors, Associate Professor of the Department of Metal Pressure Forming at NUST MISIS, Doctor of Technical Sciences Evgeniya Naumova.

According to the team, alloys containing 0.5 per cent titanium demonstrated the most balanced combination of hardness and flexibility, opening new prospects for engineering applications.