Plastic deformation delocalization at cryogenic temperatures in a nickel-based superalloy

A nickel-based superalloy is examined during monotonic deformation from ambient to cryogenic temperatures, reaching as low as liquid helium temperature. A detailed multimodal analysis of the microstructure and plasticity is conducted to discern changes in deformation mechanisms and plastic deformation localization under cryogenic conditions. This study employs high-resolution digital image correlation and transmission electron microscopy to identify the deformation mechanisms and understand their influence on plastic deformation localization as the temperature varies. At cryogenic temperatures, unusual plastic deformation localization processes are observed, attributed to the competing activation of a range of deformation processes. Furthermore, a mechanism of slip delocalization, i.e., local plastic deformation homogenization through closely spaced slip, is noted at these extreme temperatures. Ultimately, the impact of the microstructure is identified across the temperature range, from room to cryogenic temperatures.