Interface modification of tempered martensite utilizing nano-scale transition carbide via isothermal sub-zero treatment

The present study investigated the influence of isothermal holding time on characteristics of nano-scale transition carbide and interfaces of tempered high-carbon martensitic steel processed by sub-zero treatment (SZT). We interpreted a stress-induced activity of carbon atoms through SZT prior to tempering, which was crucial for obtaining desirable precipitation of transition carbide. The modification upon interfaces under the influence of transition carbide characteristics was recognized for the first time and discussed based on mechanism of precipitate-interface interaction in relation to the nanohardness value.