Plasticity of Copper with Small Grain Size

Abstract

Based on the Taylor theory, a critical length scale is defined as the minimum dislocations cell size obtained at the maximum work-hardening for metals and alloys. When grain size is smaller than this length scale, corresponding also to a critical dislocation mean free path, new behaviours occur; such as ductility and strength, near perfect elasto-plasticity, high strain-rate sensitivity. Bulk samples are fabricated from Cu nanopowders (particle size 50 nm) by powder metallurgy techniques. The final grain size is comprised between the critical mean free path, evaluated at 130 nm and the size where transition to the so-called nano regime occurs (when unit dislocation no longer exists below 30 nm for Cu). Tensile tests are carried and microstructural analysis are performed before and after deformation.