Microstructural characterization of deformation-induced martensite in an ultrafine-grained medium Mn advanced high strength steel

Microstructural characterization of deformation-induced martensite in its early stage of formation has been performed in an ultrafine-grained (UFG) medium Mn advanced high strength steel (AHSS). By using field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) and electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD), the nucleation site of deformation-induced martensite has been studied. Grain sizes, Schmid factors and aspect ratios of the parent austenite grains of deformation-induced martensite were measured in order to know their influence on the formation of deformation-induced martensite. Orientation relationship between deformation-induced martensite and its parent austenite has also been analyzed. Discussion on the effect of microstructural parameters on the formation of deformation-induced martensite in AHSS is given.