Theory of plastic deformation: - properties of low energy dislocation structures

Abstract

Work-hardening phenomena are based on the very fundamental principles (i) that at the position of every dislocation axis the respective resolved shear stress cannot exceed the friction stress, including the self-stress of bowing dislocations, and (ii) that always that structure forms which among those accessible by the dislocations minimizes stored energy per unit length of dislocation line. Such dislocation structures have been named LEDSs. The corresponding work-hardening theory, the mesh length theory, is applicable to all materials deforming via gliding dislocations and to all types of deformation. Results previously achieved with the mesh length theory are summarized, and a number of new developments are discussed. Depending on the dislocation structures formed, the work-hardening behavior differs. Easily intersecting glide causes dislocation cell structures with almost dislocation-free cell interiors delineated by dislocation rotation boundaries. Pronounced planar glide causes Taylor lattices characterized by local planar order parallel to the one or perhaps two most highly stressed glide plane(s), no systematic lattice rotations, and overall uniform dislocation density. The most widely observed basic features of work hardening are explained in general terms. Specific applications are indicated for layer-type crystals, h.c.p. single crystals, single-crystal and polycrystalline pure f.c.c. metals and α-brass-type alloys, precipitation-hardened materials and steels. Included are the different stages of work hardening, dynamical effects in low temperature plasticity, the general characteristics of grain boundary strengthening and the Hall-Petch relationship. In addition, proposed explanations for (i) glide system interactions in polyslip resulting in microbands and affecting texture formation, and (ii) creep without stress dependence of dislocation density, are discussed.