Jodhpur: Researchers in the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Jodhpur have developed an ultra-light and ultra-strong alloy called TiAl-CA, which could transform materials used in the aerospace and defence sectors.Current alloys employed in aircraft engines are either too heavy or lose strength at high operating temperatures. TiAl-CA maintains yield strength at 900 degrees centigrade, outperforming traditional nickel-based superalloys under compressive load. Team leader from the department of material engineering, SS Nene, said this ultralight, yet ultra-strong alloy promises a massive advantage for manufacturing fuel-efficient aero-engine components. “Its adoption in the aerospace and defence sectors could significantly reduce the weight of components, leading to greater efficiency and a smaller carbon footprint,” he said, adding that this innovative approach ensures the alloy is strong without becoming fragile. The researchers plan to pursue further testing, including scaling up casting volumes and testing for creep and fatigue, to bring this next-generation material closer to real-world application. Moreover, the excellent properties of TiAl-CA make it easily adaptable to advanced fusion-based 3D printing technologies such as electron beam melting and laser powder bed fusion. The TiAl-CA alloy represents a foundational step towards manufacturing next-generation aircraft and defence systems that are not only lighter and more efficient but also made in India.
IIT Jodhpur develops ultralight alloy for aerospace, def sectors | Jaipur News
