The effect of carbon content on the microstructure and mechanical properties of high-Mn steels

In Fe-22wt% Mn steels, the Stacking Fault Energy (SFE) strongly influences the transformation products produced and the mode by which deformation occurs. Low SFE alloys favor forming ε-martensite while higher SFE alloys tend to form twins, both which act as barriers for dislocation motion. By varying the carbon content within the steel, the SFE was altered to include formation of ε-martensite, twinning or both. A specific look into carbon …