Discontinuous transformation-induced plasticity behaviour in governing the mechanical behaviour in medium-Mn steels

Here, we address the continuing challenges and scientific gaps in obtaining high strength and high elongation in medium-Mn steels. Electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction studies clearly underscored that the discontinuous transformation-induced plasticity played a determining role in impacting high strength–toughness combination in conjunction with the microstructural constituents. The discontinuous TRIP effect during deformation involved stress relaxation, which was responsible for high ductility. An excellent combination of a high tensile strength in the range of 1238–1502 MPa and a total elongation of 25–33.6% was obtained when the steels were subjected to an intercritical hardening in the temperature range of 600–750°C and low tempering at 200°C. The intercritical hardening influenced the co-existence of austenite, ferrite and martensite in a manner such that the deformation behaviour varies with the Mn-content.