Aluminium-lithium (Al-Li) alloys have been around since the 1970s, yet without the predicted success for use in aircraft structures. Demonstrating the laser weldability of third-generation alloys could change that in the near future.
For several decades, Al producers have been developing Al-Li alloys to take advantage of the very low density of Li. However, the first- and second-generation materials faced issues related to ductility, toughness, and fracture and corrosion resistance when considered for aerospace applications.
Further details: Low-emission joining of lightweight aircraft parts