A correlative approach to evaluating the links between local microstructural parameters and creep initiated cavities
The study and modelling of material degradation processes, such as the initiation and growth of creep cavities in high-temperature applications, require a correlative and comprehensive knowledge of the microstructure. However, individual microscopy is limited to a small region and specific microstructural information of the specimen. This work demonstrates a novel correlative microscopy approach for characterising creep cavitation and establishing correlations with local microstructural parameters in a statistical manner. This approach combines datasets from stitched higher-resolution backscattered electron (BSE) images, XeF2 Focused Ion Beam (FIB) images, and backscattered electron diffraction (EBSD) maps with advanced image correlation techniques. Deep-learning image segmentation techniques and statistical analysis are applied to find relations between creep cavitation and local microstructural environment. This approach is demonstrated in a cyclic creep-tested 316H stainless steel specimen with extensive creep cavities. The results show that in this material, strain localization, grain boundary misorientation, and substantial precipitation dominate the nucleation of cavities, whereas other microstructural properties such as grain size and Schmid factor play smaller roles. This study presents the use of the correlative microscopy approach to provide new insights into creep cavitation behaviour and its implications for establishing creep cavitation damage models.
Funding
The Physics and Mechanics of Creep Cavity Nucleation and Sintering in Energy Materials
Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council
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Find out more...History
Author affiliation
College of Science & Engineering/EngineeringVersion
- VoR (Version of Record)
Published in
Materials & DesignVolume
241Pagination
112905 - 112905Publisher
Elsevier BVissn
0264-1275Copyright date
2024Available date
2024-04-26Publisher DOI
Language
enPublisher version
Deposited by
Dr Elsiddig ElmukashfiDeposit date
2024-04-23Data Access Statement
Data will be made available on request.Rights Retention Statement
- No