Combining crystal plasticity and phase field model for predicting texture evolution and the influence of nuclei clustering on recrystallization path kinetics in Ti-alloys

Abstract

A three-dimensional computational framework has been developed combining a crystal plasticity (CP) and a phase-field (PF) approach that can efficiently simulate static recrystallization (SRX) and grain growth during the hot-forming in Ti-alloys. In the framework, the CP slip system parameters have been accurately calibrated by solving an inverse optimization problem from available experimental tension and compression stress–strain data through CP simulations performed via an orientation distribution function (ODF)-based computational model. Using the CP model, the evolution of inhomogeneous local deformation, deformed texture, and grain dislocation density have been simulated in the plastically deformed polycrystalline Ti-alloys. The PF model then predicts microstructure evolution and kinetics of SRX from CP-informed dislocation density during the annealing phase. Experimental information on microstructural heterogeneity in terms of the initial arrangement of nuclei distribution has been used to guide the development of the framework that can provide deeper insights into unique morphological evolution for various types of grain impingement as well as experimental validation of SRX kinetics. Finally, when the proposed model has been quantitatively validated through experimentally measured texture evolution and SRX path kinetics, excellent agreement is achieved. The current study highlights a systematic modeling framework that is capable of predicting crystallographic texture, microstructural evolution, and kinetics in the course of SRX for a clear understanding of the relationship between the mechanical properties, various microstructural descriptors, and thermo-mechanical process in the regime of material design.