Microstrain evolution of multilayered Ti/X (X=Zr, Nb) composites under the effect of heterophase interfaces

The mechanical properties of multilayered metallic composites are determined by strain/stress partitioning between the constituent metals. However, the effect of strain on the deformation behaviour and the selection of deformation mechanisms in individual phases within the composites composed of at least one hcp constituent are still unclear, especially when the single layer thickness is only a few microns or even smaller. In this work, micromechanical behaviour and strain/stress distribution and evolution in multilayered Ti/X (X=Zr, Nb) composites will be measured by using the in-situ neutron diffraction technique. The evolution of microstrains that underlie the load sharing among the differently oriented grains and between the constituent metals will be traced under the applied stress. Then, the mechanism of strengthening and toughening in such a composite structure can be explored.