Single crystal pillar microcompression tests of the MAX phases Ti2InC and Ti4AlN3

The deformation behavior of micron-sized, single crystal specimens of the MAX phases Ti2InC and Ti4AlN3 has been investigated under uniaxial compression. Deformation took place by slip on single planes or sets of parallel planes. For highly inclined slip planes, where slip was hindered by the substrate or punch, deformation was accompanied by micro-cracking, layer bending, and the formation of kink bands. This study confirms the importance of obstacles in the deformation behavior and strength of MAX phases.