Modelling the stability and transformation kinetics of retained austenite in steels

Abstract

The stability of retained austenite refers to its resistance to transform into martensite. While most models describe the thermal and mechanical influence on retained austenite stability and transformation kinetics separately, few have considered explaining both aspects in a unified model. Here, we review the factors governing austenite stability and transformation kinetics, together with models which predict these properties. By assessing the predictive capabilities of models using experimental data, several parameters have been identified as crucial in describing transformation behaviour. We anticipate that this review will stimulate further research in developing physics-based models that could improve the understanding of austenite stability and transformation.

A critical review on deformation-induced transformation kinetics of austenitic stainless steels

“…Hence, transformation of austenite to martensite cannot be observed in this regime and only plastic deformation of austenite can be possible. 1,33,34,41,42,[52][53][54][55]…”

“…Most of the previous reviews on deformation-induced transformation in steels majorly discuss the factors influencing the mechanical stability of austenite during deformation. 6,14,15,[30][31][32][33][34] and emphasize on the importance of austenite stability in tailoring the mechanical properties of the steels. Castellanos et al 35 reviewed various thermomechanical routes to carry out the stress and strain-induced transformation in single phase fully austenitic steels and in multiphase microstructures.…”

“…However, no prospective on the transformation kinetics was presented in the review. Wong 34 reviewed the thermodynamics of transformation and various factors influencing the stability of retained austenite in multiphase steels. From the kinetics point of view, the author just discussed various kinetic models and did not present any comparison among them.…”

Influence of Aluminum on the Wear Properties of High‐Carbon Metastable Austenitic Steels

“…The underlying thesis of this study is that high wear resistance is achieved regardless of the steel composition, provided that the metastability of the austenite is given. Although austenite stability depends on many factors-chemical composition, grain size, morphology, stress state, the strength of neighboring phases, and grain orientation-Wong [13] stated that the chemical composition DOI: 10.1002/srin.202200545…”