On the inhomogeneity of plastic deformation in the crystals of an aggregate

Abstract

The variation of plastic deformation in aluminium specimens consisting of large crystals has been determined by measuring elongation and hardness at various points after tensile deformation. The deformation varied from grain to grain, and also within each grain the deformation near the boundary was greater or smaller than at the centre according to whether the neighbour was more or less deformed, i. e. there is not necessarily inhibition of slip near grain boundaries. These results were supported by metallographic and X-ray observations. Their importance with respect to the calculation of the stress-strain curve of aggregates from those of single crystals is discussed. It is suggested that a mechanism other than slip operates near the grain boundaries during deformation, and even within the crystals during large extensions.