In situ analysis of the early stage of abnormal grain growth during recrystallization of an electrical steel

Contrary to its huge industrial importance the theory of abnormal grain growth (AGG) of Goss grains during the recrystallization of electrical steels is still a matter of intense debate [1-6]. There are several theories aiming to explain the phenomenon, but there are no adequate experimental data corroborating them. In this proposal we aim to follow in situ by diffraction contrast tomography (DCT) and by high-energy diffraction the recrystallization behavior of such steel. By measuring the growth rate of about 10,000 grains it will be possible for the first time obtaining key information on the neighborhood and location of Goss grains and to link this information to their growth rate. The expected results can shed light on the physical mechanism, which is at the basis of this “enigmatic” industrial process.