Strong interfaces: the key to high strength in nano metallic laminates
Yifan Zhang, Thomas J. Nizolek, Laurent Capolungo, Nan Li, John S. Carpenter, Rodney J. McCabe
Abstract
Excellent mechanical properties of nanomaterials are usually attributed to their nanoscale feature size and high-density interfaces. This work explores the effects of intrinsic interface properties on mechanical properties of nano metallic laminates (NMLs). We show that the interface strength significantly affects the mechanical properties of NMLs. Via in situ mechanical testing and characterization, we investigate the deformation behavior and concurrent microstructure evolution in NMLs with four types of dissimilar interfaces. Our results show that the strength and deformation behaviors of NMLs are largely determined by interface strength. Strong interfaces can simultaneously increase the strength, work hardening capability, and deformability of NMLs. This work brings new insight into the design of advanced metallic materials through tuning of interface properties.