Nowadays, the range of applications for lightweight materials is increasing, especially for components used in automotive and aerospace industries. Not only are lightweight alloys being used for non-load bearing automobile parts like dashboards, but also for engine blocks and rims under high mechanical loads. These parts are often subjected to very high temperatures and/or chemical stresses.

In this project, we characterized the cyclic deformation behavior of magnesium, titanium and aluminum alloys at high temperatures, in increasing loads and constant amplitude tests as well as under service loading. We assessed cyclic deformation behavior by measuring stress-strain hysteresis and taking thermometric and electrical measurements. Microstructures were characterized by light and scanning electron microscopy. These investigations led to sound knowledge about the relationship between fatigue behavior and microstructure in lightweight alloys.