In situ observations of transgranular crack propagation in high-manganese steel

Crack propagation in high-Mn steel was investigated using in situ transmission electron microscopy. Preferential slips developed in the early stages of deformation on {1 1 1}, followed by the formation of a crack, which propagated along the pre-developed slip traces. A sharp corner was observed at the crack tip along two adjoining {1 1 1} planes. Surface ripples developed when the tip of the crack crossed pre-existing twins on the crack path, which was frequently observed in the surface during the final stage of fracture.