Project Leader: Otmar Kolednik
Steels with the transformation-induced plasticity (TRIP) effect exhibit phase transformations of austenite into martensite triggered by plastic deformation. This transformation enhances strain hardening, which leads to a combination of excellent strength and ductility. In spite of the fine microstructure of the material investigated, the deformation induced phase transformation of single austenitic grains can be studied using high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD). The accompanying transformation strains in the surrounding matrix can be quantified by local deformation measurements.
![](/fileadmin/_processed_/9/f/csm_Download_f3fc988a96.png)
![](/fileadmin/_processed_/e/e/csm_Download__1__63a21d1596.png)
Local deformation measurements are based on a system for digital image analysis which finds identical points on SEM-micrographs captured at different deformation stages. The method provides, with high accuracy and resolution, the local in-plane strains that occur in the loading step considered. A similar digital image analysis system has been applied for quantitative fracture surface analysis.
![](/fileadmin/_processed_/5/6/csm_bild_01_d62dbb3054.jpg)