Quantitative analysis of microstructure evolution in hot-rolled multiphase steel subjected to interrupted tensile test

Abstract

A quantitative analysis of the microstructure evolution in thermomechanically processed Si-Al multiphase steel with Nb and Ti microadditions was performed in the study. The tendency of strain-induced martensitic transformation of retained austenite was analyzed during a tensile test interrupted at incremental strain levels. Optical micrographs and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) maps were obtained at each deformation step. The quantitative analysis of the martensitic transformation progress as a function of strain was performed. The results showed that the stability of retained austenite is mostly related to its grain size and morphology. Large, blocky-type grains of retained austenite located in a ferritic matrix easily transformed into martensite during an initial step of straining. The highest mechanical stability showed small austenitic grains and thin layers located in bainitic islands. It was found that the extent of martensitic transformation decreased as the deformation level increased.