Use of Hardness and Electrical Conductivity Testing to Evaluate Heat Damage and Sensitization in 5083-H116 Al-Mg Alloys

Detecting heat damage and eliminating the susceptibility to sensitization of wrought 5xxx series aluminum-magnesium alloys is of practical importance for the remediation of field structures. Electrical conductivity and hardness testing were employed to provide indirect evidence to assess the microstructural evolution of 5083-H116 alloys after annealing treatment at 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, 400, and 450 °C and sensitization treatment at 175 °C for 168 h. The findings indicate a strong relationship between the hardness, electrical conductivity, and degree of sensitization (DoS). This methodology can be used as a simple guide to quickly determine whether heat damage or sensitization exists.