Which elements are commonly added to aluminum to make alloys?

Most aluminum used today is alloyed with other elements to increase its strength, as high-purity aluminum is relatively soft. The most common alloying elements added to aluminum include:1

• Manganese (Mn)1
• Magnesium (Mg)12
• Copper (Cu)1
• Zinc (Zn)1
• Silicon (Si)1

In addition to these, lithium (Li) is incorporated into some modern alloys designed for the aerospace industry.1

To achieve specific properties, smaller amounts of other elements may also be added, including chromium (Cr), zirconium (Zr), vanadium (V), titanium (Ti), boron (B), tin (Sn), bismuth (Bi), and lead (Pb). While iron (Fe) is often present in aluminum alloys, it is typically considered an impurity rather than a deliberate alloying addition.1