On the Reversion and Recrystallization of Austenite in the Interstitially Alloyed Ni-Free Nano/Ultrafine Grained Austenitic Stainless Steels

The martensite reversion treatment was conducted on two grades of Ni-free austenitic stainless steels interstitially alloyed with C and N. The hot rolled sheets of steels were cold rolled up to 80% thickness reduction to acquire strain-induced α′-martensite and subsequently reversion annealed at temperatures from 700 to 850 °C for 1 to 1000 s to revert the α′-martensite to austenite. Microstructural evolution was investigated using optical microscopy, X-ray diffraction, electron backscatter diffraction, and magnetic measurement techniques. Mechanical properties were measured using tensile tests at room temperature. The resultant microstructures contained both reverted and recrystallized austenite when reverted at 700 and 750 °C with the annealing time less than 100 s. A nonuniform grain structure was characterized under these conditions consisting of nano/ultrafine grains formed via α′-martensite reversion and coarser grains by recrystallization of the retained austenite. However, a more uniform austenite grain size with average size of 1 μm was obtained at 850 °C for 1000 s. The specimens having nonuniform grain structure exhibited excellent combinations of strength and ductility. A variety of mechanical properties was achieved depending on the annealing condition. The work hardening behavior affected UTS and ductility of the studied steels. The shift of the work hardening peaks to the higher strains was found suitable for ductility. Addition of C to N-containing Ni-free steels deteriorated mechanical properties. Best combination of strength and elongation was obtained in the test material with lower C/N ratio.