Interphase strain gradients in multilayered steel composite from microdiffraction

Multilayered steel composites consisting of alternating martensite and austenite layers and exhibiting a combination of high strength and ductility were successfully fabricated. To understand the microplasticity mechanisms responsible for such exceptional mechanical behavior, 3D X-ray microscopy with a submicron beam size was employed to probe the stress/strain distribution within the top two layers during incremental tensile loading. The 3D depth-dependent strain gradients were monitored in situ near the martensite/austenite interfaces as a function of the load level. It was observed that the strain gradients redistributed during loading. Specifically, large compressive strains developed in the top martensite layer transverse to the loading direction, while small tensile strains were found across the layer interface into the underneath austenite layer.