Experimental study on the martensitic transformation in AISI 304 steel sheets subjected to tension under wide ranges of strain rate at room temperature

► The martensitic transformation occurring in AISI 304 steel sheets subjected to tension at room temperature has been experimentally studied. ► Tensile tests have been performed within wide ranges of strain rate 10−5 s−1≤ε˙≤102 s−1. ► Advanced measurement techniques have been applied to determine the loading conditions under which martensite is formed. ► A considerable amount of martensite has been detected in the tested samples. ► It has been proven that the free energy supplied by straining the sample relegates to a secondary role the rise in temperature taking place during the course of plastic deformation.