On the microstructural evolution pattern toward nano-scale of an AISI 304 stainless steel during high strain rate surface deformation

Abstract

In the present investigation, an austenitic AISI 304 stainless steel was subjected to high strain rate surface deformation by Pipe Inner-Surface Grinding (PISG) technique. The depth-dependent deformation parameters (strain, strain rate and strain gradient) were evaluated and the microstructures were systematically characterized. Microstructural evolution from millimeter- to nano-scale was explored, with special attention paid to the localized deformation. Microstructural evolution begins with the formation of planar dislocation arrays and the twin-matrix lamellae, which is followed by the localized deformation characterized by the initiation and the development of shear bands. A twinning-dominated process that was supplemented with dislocation slip-dominated one governed the microstructural evolution inside shear bands. The twin-matrix lamellae transform into extended/lamellar structure and finally the nano-sized grains. Austenitic grains were substantially refined and martensitic transformation was effectively suppressed, of which the underlying mechanisms were analyzed.