Linking statistical crystal plasticity modelling of TRIP to the microstructural evolution probed by 3D X-ray microscopy

 The hallmark of TRIP materials is their exceptional combination of toughness and formability rooted on the mechanically induced transformation of austenite to martensite. The gradual transformation to an intricate mixture of austenite and martensite bestows an exceptional balance of strength and ductility to these materials. However, the resulting complex interplay between the concomitant phase transformation, plastic slip and the local 3D grain environment constitutes a unique challenge in predicting their mechanical response. To enhance the fidelity of computer simulations of the mechanical behavior of TRIP materials a coherent 3D view of the transformation and deformation processes at the grain level would be needed. Here, I will tackle this challenge by using cutting-edge in-situ 3D Xray microscopy to create a detailed view of the 3D microstructural and topological changes across different length scales during TRIP. Further, I will address the fundamental question in crystal plasticity of how macroscopic and microscopic quantities relate to each other. Informed by the grain- and time-resolved experimental data I will develop a novel statistical crystal plasticity model for TRIP taking the heterogeneity of deformation at the grain level into account. This will lead to an improved understanding of TRIP - in real-life microstructures as well as in computational models.