Uncovering the mechanism of dislocation interaction with nanoscale (<4 nm) interphase precipitates in microalloyed ferritic steels

Nanoscale interphase precipitation in microalloyed ferritic steels provides a remarkable (200–400 MPa) strengthening increment, however its origin is unclear. Scanning transmission electron microscopy revealed step formation at the matrix/precipitate interface after both macroscopic uniaxial tension and nanopillar compression testing. Supported by Density Functional Theory modelling, dislocation shearing of nano-sized ( slip–system in the VC nanoparticles.