Reinforcing Mechanism of Mg‐PSZ Particles in Highly‐Alloyed TRIP Steel

Abstract

Abstract Dense TRIP‐matrix composites containing 5 vol.% Mg‐PSZ as reinforcing phase were produced by employing the spark plasma sintering technique. A continuous and seamless interface between the ceramic particles and the steel matrix was achieved. Compression tests revealed better mechanical properties of the 5 vol.% Mg‐PSZ‐TRIP steel composites in comparison with both, pure and Al 2 O 3 reinforced TRIP steel. The underlying deformation mechanism within the austenitic matrix entailed a pronounced martensite formation. An additional phase transformation was observed within the ZrO 2 particles. The enhanced mechanical properties of the 5 vol.% Mg‐PSZ composite are dedicated to the transformation strengthening of the ceramic particles. Finally a model of the reinforcing mechanism is proposed.