Atomistic study of nano-sized κ-carbide formation and its interaction with dislocations in a cast Si added FeMnAlC lightweight steel

The Si addition facilitates the partitioning of carbon to κ-carbide during aging in a Fe-30Mn-9Al-0.9C-0.5Mo lightweight steel, i.e. from (Fe,Mn)3AlC0.38 to (Fe,Mn)3AlC0.51. Reduced plasticity was found in 1% Si-added specimen where one directional shearing of κ-carbide was prominent. Novel insights into dislocation-κ-carbide interactions are discussed in terms of atomistic shear.