Problems in Non-Elastic Deformation of Metals

Abstract

In this article an attempt is made to examine the goals of current and of possible future types of research concerned with the non-elastic deformation of metals. It is found that an understanding of non-elastic deformation would be enhanced by research upon the following topics: 1. The anelasticity associated with the viscous behavior of grain boundaries and the at least temporary viscous behavior of slip bands. 2. The mechanics of the initiation and growth of twin bands. 3. The mechanics of the initiation and growth of slip bands, including the drop in resistance to deformation which accompanies the initial slip bands. 4. The mechanics of the segregation of solute atoms in solid solution, such as of carbon and nitrogen in iron. 5. The conditions under which strain hardening is not removed by recovery or by recrystallization, and hence under which a mechanical equation of state exists, i.e., under which a relation exists between strain rate, strain, stress, and temperature. 6. Variation of the heat of activation for plastic strain rate upon stress and upon the microstructure. 7. Anisotropy introduced by deformation.