Strong Strain Hardening in Nanocrystalline Nickel

X. L. Wu*, Y. T. Zhu, Y. G. Wei, Q. Wei

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Journal Publications and ReviewsRGC 21 - Publication in refereed journalpeer-review

231 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Low strain hardening has hitherto been considered an intrinsic behavior for most nanocrystalline (NC) metals, due to their perceived inability to accumulate dislocations. In this Letter, we show strong strain hardening in NC nickel with a grain size of ∼20nm under large plastic strains. Contrary to common belief, we have observed significant dislocation accumulation in the grain interior. This is enabled primarily by Lomer-Cottrell locks, which pin the lock-forming dislocations and obstruct dislocation motion. These observations may help with developing strong and ductile NC metals and alloys. © 2009 The American Physical Society.
Original languageEnglish
Article number205504
JournalPhysical Review Letters
Volume103
Issue number20
Online published13 Nov 2009
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 13 Nov 2009
Externally publishedYes

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