The deformation mechanisms of TWIP steels (Fe-Mn-C) viewed by X-ray diffraction

Fully austenitic steels of the Fe-Mn-C system can show extensive deformation twinning (TWIP effect). The deformed microstructure of such steels has been analysed using X-ray diffraction at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF). The experimental diffractograms, recorded using a 2D CCD camera, are analysed in terms of Bragg peak profiles (broadening and asymmetry) and position (shift from the reference [undeformed state] position) leading to an estimation of dislocation and stacking faults densities.