Deformation by grain boundary hinge-like behavior

A symmetric tilt Σ11(113) Cu grain boundary was investigated through molecular dynamics simulation. The boundary exhibited an unexpected nonlinear elastic response upon compressive loading normal to the grain boundary plane. Analysis revealed that this particular grain boundary can act as a hinge, leading to significant rotation between two crystals. The rotation induces a change in the loading direction and a subsequent decrease in strain energy due to elastic anisotropy. The geometry, anisotropy, and atomic structure of the boundary were all found to play a role in its peculiar behavior.