Project aims to develop next generation of high-strength aluminium alloys

Aluminium production consumes 3.5 per cent of the world’s electricity supply, while producing one per cent of global carbon dioxide emissions.

However, the metal is theoretically infinitely recyclable, with its recycling consuming just five per cent of the energy needed to produce the metal in the first place. Over one billion tonnes of aluminium has been produced since 1908, of which over 75 per cent remains as accessible stock.

Now, in a bid to reach a full circle aluminium use and recycling system, researchers at the Brunel Centre for Advanced Solidification Technology (BCAST) at Brunel University, working with Netherlands-based aluminium products manufacturer Constellium, have established a strategic research partnership.

The partnership will develop high performance aluminium alloys, and investigate their applications in lightweight vehicle construction, according to Prof Zhongyun Fan, project leader and director of BCAST.

Aluminium alloys have a range of benefits including low density, high strength, and high corrosion resistance. As a result, demand for aluminium products is increasing, particularly in the transport industry.