Deformation twinning in LiAlO2 at elevated temperatures

High temperature compressive tests were carried out on γ-LiAlO2 single crystals along their [1 0 0] and [0 0 1] directions. It was found that the LiAlO2 crystal deformed via a twinning process while compressed along [1 0 0]. The twinning elements for the observed deformation twin are summarized as K1: (1   1¯   2), K2: (1¯   1   2), η1: [1¯   1   1], η2: [1   1¯   1], and s = 0.305. No dislocation slips were observed associated with the twinning. When the crystal was compressed along [0 0 1], no twins but cracks were observed.

► High temperature compressive tests were carried out on γ-LiAlO2 single crystals.
► LiAlO2 crystal deformed via a twinning process while compressed along [1 0 0].
► The twinning elements are determined.
► No dislocation slips were observed associated with the twinning.