Preface of the 15th International Aluminium Conference

The 15th International Aluminium Conference (INALCO 2023) was organized by AluQuébec, the aluminum cluster federating instance for Quebec’s thriving aluminum ecosystem, in collaboration with the Aluminium Research Centre—REGAL. This distinguished research center, situated in Québec, Canada, serves as a hub for accomplished experts hailing from seven renowned universities and one esteemed college. It is worth noting that the previous iteration of this illustrious conference took place in Tokyo, Japan, as the 14th edition and in Naples, Italy, as the 13th edition.

The conference was graciously hosted by Rio Tinto, a prominent industry leader known for their unwavering commitment to excellence and sustainability. Their partnership with the Quebec government further solidified their dedication to fostering innovation within the aluminum sector. INALCO 2023 unfolded against the picturesque backdrop of Quebec City, Canada, from October 11 to October 13 of that year. The central theme revolved around “Green Aluminum for Transportation and Infrastructure”, underscoring an unwavering focus on sustainable practices throughout all aspects of aluminum production.

INALCO aimed to present cutting-edge applied research encompassing diverse applications within transportation and civil structures while placing particular emphasis on green aluminum solutions. Topics explored during this gathering included alloys at the forefront of technological advancements; innovative welding and assembly techniques; surface treatment methodologies designed to combat corrosion; comprehensive environmental impact assessments; as well as meticulous life cycle analyses.

To illuminate these crucial facets of green aluminum innovation within the industry, an array of distinguished guest speakers was carefully selected to deliver captivating plenary lectures:

• Vincent Christ: Esteemed CEO of ELYSIS (Canada), who shared invaluable insights on “ELYSIS: A Key Player in Aluminum Decarbonization”.
• Harry Kaladis: Respected representative from Rio Tinto (USA), whose lecture titled “The Future of Responsible Aluminum: Connecting the Entire Value Chain” captivated attendees.
• Benoit Cusson: Accomplished professional from WSP Canada, who expertly delved into “10 Modern Applications and Construction Details for Aluminum Bridges”.
• Denis Mazerolle: Esteemed representative from Nature Alu (Canada), whose presentation on “Super High-Purity Aluminum” shed light on groundbreaking advancements in the field.
• Philippe Gosselin and Félix Lapointe: From Ferreol (Canada), who introduced an exciting new aluminum-scandium alloy designed for high-performance alpine skis.
• Laurent Chappuis: Renowned Light Metals Consultant (USA), whose lecture titled “Aluminum Auto Body Sheet in North America after the 2015 Ford F-150” offered invaluable insights into automotive applications of aluminum.
• Geir Rigen and Trond Furu: Esteemed representatives from NTNU (Norway) and Hydro Aluminium (Norway), respectively, who jointly explored the ambitious prospects, opportunities, and challenges associated with aluminum long span suspension bridges.
• The Honorable Rosa Galvez: Distinguished Canadian senator, whose captivating conference during the gala dinner centered around “Aluminum in a Circular Economy”.

INALCO 2023 featured a meticulously curated program comprising eight technical sessions dedicated to Design and Metal Forming encompassing 26 enlightening conferences. Additionally, seven sessions focused on Welding and Joining featuring 22 engaging conferences. Four thought-provoking sessions were dedicated to Alloys with 12 enlightening conferences. Furthermore, two comprehensive sessions explored Surface Treatment through six captivating conferences. Lastly, two insightful sessions delved into Environmental Impact through six illuminating presentations. A total of forty-eight carefully selected conferences were chosen for publication within the esteemed conference proceedings.

The conference seamlessly intertwined with the celebrated 20th REGAL Students’ Day—an annual rendezvous where accomplished PhD and master’s students are afforded the invaluable opportunity to present their research findings through captivating posters. This esteemed event serves as a platform for these aspiring scholars to engage with the scientific community, REGAL members, and esteemed industrial guests. The culmination of this event sees all presented posters published within the revered “Encyclopedia of Research on Aluminum in Québec”. Notably, fifty exceptional posters were showcased during this prestigious conference.

The International Scientific Committee comprised over 40 distinguished researchers and engineers hailing from 15 diverse countries—a testament to the global reach and significance of INALCO. The organizing committee consisted of devoted individuals including:

• Pr. Houshang Alamdari from Laval University, Quebec City;
• Véronique Auclair representing AluQuébec, Montreal;
• Pr. Nicolas Boissonnade from Laval University, Quebec City;
• Marie-Morin Drolet also affiliated with AluQuébec in Montreal;
• Pr. Mario Fafard who holds positions at both Laval University and AluQuébec, Montreal;
• Marie-Louise Tremblay representing the renowned Aluminium Research Centre—REGAL, Quebec City.