Types of aluminum materials can be classified from a number of perspectives, including their use, surface treatment, chemical composition, and microstructure.
Classification by use
Structural profiles
Used in buildings, bridges and other occasions that require high strength and durability.
Castings
Made by the casting process, suitable for parts with complex shapes.
Rods
Used to make various mechanical parts and tools.
Aluminum foam material
It has the characteristics of light weight and high energy absorption.
And is often used for shock absorption and sound insulation.
Aluminum honeycomb material
It has high strength and light weight characteristics, and is widely used in the aerospace field.
Classification by surface treatment
Anodized aluminum
A thin film of alumina is formed through the anodizing process to enhance corrosion resistance and aesthetics.
For example, 7075-T651 aluminum alloy is anodized to create an ultra-low ice adhesion surface (SLIPS) for anti-ice applications.
Laser-Induced Periodic Surface Structure (LIPSS) Aluminum
Formed by laser treatment to form micro-nano structures with superhydrophobic or superic-phobic properties,use in anti-icing and anti-fouling applications.
Coated aluminum
Coatings improve the corrosion resistance and adhesion of aluminum.
Classification by chemical composition
Pure aluminum
The main component is aluminum, which has good electrical and thermal conductivity, but low strength.
Alloy aluminum
Improves strength and corrosion resistance by adding other metal elements such as copper, magnesium, silicon, etc.
For example, aluminum alloys such as 3004, 6061, 6063.
Special alloys such as aluminum-lithium alloys, which increase strength and reduce density by adding lithium.
Classification by microstructure
Nano aluminum powder
Has a higher specific surface area and faster combustion rate, suitable for applications with high energy requirements.
Grain refinement aluminum
Improves the strength and toughness of the material by refining the grain size.
Classification by surface properties
Superhydrophilic/Superhydrophobic Aluminum
Superhydrophilic or superhydrophobic properties achieved through surface modification techniques such as fluorination for self-cleaning and anti-icing applications.
Ice resistant aluminium surface
Significantly reduces the adhesion of ice by means of special surface treatments (e.g. SLIPS technology) for aircraft surfaces.
Other special types
Alnico permanent magnet material
It is magnetic and can be used to make permanent magnets.
Aluminum-lithium alloy
Combines the advantages of aluminum and lithium with high strength and low density.
Haichen’s experience
In summary, there are many types of aluminum materials, and each type has its own unique properties and application scenarios.
For example, anodized aluminum is suitable for anti-icing and anti-corrosion applications, while aluminum foam is mainly used for shock absorption and sound insulation.
