Constructing multi-scale retained austenite makes bainitic steel better mechanical properties by introducing weak chemical heterogeneity
Changbo Liu, Dongyun Sun, Chen Chen, Bo Lv, Xin Wang, Zhinan Yang, Fucheng Zhang
Abstract
Overcoming the trade-off relationship between strength and ductility has always been a challenge. In this article, a neatly arranged ultrafine bainite that is composed of multi-scale retained austenite was obtained by introducing weak chemical heterogeneity in low-alloy steel. The optimized microstructure makes transformation-induced plasticity (TRIP) behavior and coordinating deformation behavior between each phase to be smoother. This results in better comprehensive properties, with 28.5% and 9% increases in uniform elongation and toughness, respectively, and a similar strength. This study provides a new way to improve the properties of low-alloy steels.
Topics & Concepts
Materials scienceAusteniteBainiteToughnessMicrostructureDuctility (Earth science)ElongationAlloyPlasticityMetallurgyDeformation (meteorology)Alloy steelUltimate tensile strengthComposite materialCreepMicrostructure and Mechanical Properties of SteelsMagnetic Properties and ApplicationsMetal Alloys Wear and Properties