| Abstract Scope |
The automotive industry is under pressure to enhance fuel efficiency and passenger safety, driven by governmental regulations. Advanced High Strength Steels (AHSS) offer a promising solution, particularly the emerging third-generation (3G) AHSS, which promise improved properties over first-generation (1G) AHSS. Previous work has developed prototype medium-Mn steels compatible with CGL processing while meeting 3G AHSS mechanical targets. However, user properties like bendability need assessment for industrial adoption. This study investigates retained austenite transformation kinetics in prototype 3G AHSS under various strain conditions. Using Digital Image Correlation (DIC) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD), the relationship between deformation modes is examined. Results strongly reveal path-dependent kinetics, indicating the availability of TRIP effect kinetics at high strains, crucial for applications like bending. Future work aims to expand the study to coated steels and other strain paths, to develop a predictive model for microstructural development in 3G AHSS. |