Controlling metastability in additively manufactured alloys undergoing deformation-induced transformations

Steel, titanium and manganese alloys undergo deformation-induced transitions; these include the formation of martensite and twinning under stress. Such transitions are accompanied by a significant improvement in properties such as strength, ductility and toughness. Compared to wrought alloys, those produced by additive manufacturing (AM) display a complex microstructure amenable to tailoring. This project will focus on developing and adapting models for describing the microstructure-properties relationship in AM microstructures. A range of AM microstructures will be designed and built for mechanical testing for further characterised to prove the accuracy of the models. The work will be performed in partnership with LPW Technology as part of the Royal Academy of Engineering Research Chair held by Professor Pedro Rivera, and under the co-supervision of Dr Bij-Na Kim.