Recent progress on the control strategies of microstructure and mechanical properties of LPBF-printed aluminum alloys

Laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) is a rapid prototyping technology with high forming accuracy, which can print complex metallic components applied in the aerospace field. The aluminum alloy parts manufactured by LPBF can better achieve lightweight structures than other metallic materials due to the combination of materials and structure. However, many metallurgical defects such as spherification, porosity, coarse grain, and crack are more likely formed inside the printed components during the LPBF process, resulting in the decline of properties of the aluminum alloy. In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, researchers have conducted in-depth exploration to improve the mechanical properties of LPBF fabricated Al parts. In this paper, the methods to improve the forming quality of aluminum alloy are explored from the direction of regulation strategies for microstructure and properties. The current research status of LPBF-processed aluminum alloy is discussed from the aspects of process parameter optimization, alloying element modification, reinforcing phase addition, and post-treatment. Furthermore, the microstructure and properties of LPBF-processed aluminum alloy are systematically reviewed.