Microstructure and indentation properties of single-roll and twin-roll casting of a quasicrystal-forming Al-Mn-Cu-Be alloyZupanič, Franc (Avtor) Macerl, Matjaž (Avtor) Haga, Toshio (Avtor) Bončina, Tonica (Avtor) single-roll castingtwin roll castingmicrostructurequasicrystalhardnessaluminiumcharacterisationIn this investigation, strips of an experimental Al-Mn-Cu-Be alloy were manufactured by high-speed single-roll and twin-roll casting to stimulate the formation of a quasicrystalline phase during solidification. The strips were characterised by light microscopy, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, microchemical analysis, and X-ray diffraction. Indentation testing was used to determine the mechanical responses of the strips in different areas. A smooth surface was achieved on both sides of the twin-roll-cast strip, while the free surface of the single-roll-cast strip was rough. The microstructures in both strips consisted of an Al-rich solid solution matrix embedding several intermetallic phases Θ-Al2Cu, Be4Al (Mn, Cu), Al15Mn3Be2 and icosahedral quasicrystalline phase (IQC). The microstructure of the single-roll-cast strip was more uniform than that of the twin-roll-cast strip. Coarse Al15Mn3Be2 particles appeared in both alloys, especially at the centre of the twinroll strip. These coarse particles adversely affected the strength and ductility. Nevertheless, both casting methods provided high-cooling rates, enabling the formation of metastable phases, such as quasicrystals. However, improvements in alloy composition and casting procedure are required to obtain enhanced microstructures and properties.MDPI AG20222025-03-24 12:27:50Članek v reviji92240sl© 2022 by the authors