Strain-dependence of deformation microstructures in ultra-low-C IF steel deformed to high strains by torsion at elevated temperatures

Single-phase bcc-ferrite in an interstitial free (IF) steel was deformed to different strains in a wide range from low to high strains (ε = 1–7) by torsion under different Zener-Hollomon (Z) conditions. The specimens were rapidly quenched after the torsion to preserve microstructures formed under different deformation conditions. The results showed that during high-Z (low-temperature) deformation, grains were subdivided by geometrically necessary boundaries (GNBs) via the grain subdivision mechanism. Deformation to high strains (ε > 5) led to the ultrafine lamellar structures (with grain sizes 1 μm) were realized with decreasing Z. The significance of the grain subdivision and the thermally activated phenomena on the formation of various microstructures under different deformation conditions is discussed.