Quenching-partitioning-tempering (Q-P-T) steels: Microstructural design, interface-mediated deformation, and mechanical-property synergy

Advanced high-strength steels require a balanced combination of strength, ductility, toughness, fatigue resistance, and cost efficiency, but these properties are often limited by competing deformation and damage mechanisms. Quenching-partitioning-tempering steels address this challenge by coupling martensitic transformation, carbon partitioning, carbide precipitation, retained-austenite stabilization, and martensite/austenite interface regulation. This review summarizes recent progress in quenching-partitioning-tempering steels from three connected perspectives: microstructural design, interface-mediated deformation, and model-guided property optimization. Particular attention is given to retained-austenite stability, interfacial dislocation transfer, static/dynamic mechanical-property synergy, and predictive modelling. Current challenges are also discussed, including process-window robustness, carbide-precipitation competition, service reliability, industrial scale-up, and model transferability. Future opportunities involving additive manufacturing, interface engineering, and data-driven design are highlighted. This review provides a concise framework for understanding and designing quenching-partitioning-tempering steels for high-performance engineering applications. © 2026 The Authors.