Abstract
Defects in an AA5754 (Al-3.0%Mg) alloy are investigated by coincidence Doppler broadening spectroscopy and positron lifetime spectroscopy. The results indicate enhancement of positron trapping by Mg atoms in this Al–Mg alloy after quenching treatment at 623 K, which may be due to the formation of vacancy-Mg complexes or the aggregation of Mg near the vacancy sites. It is speculated that the aggregation of Mg atoms in the moderate temperature range is responsible for cracking in spot welding of AA5754 alloys.