Dynamic shear–strain localization and inclusion effects in lath martensitic steels subjected to high pressure loads

A three-dimensional multiple-slip dislocation-density based crystalline formulation, specialized finite-element formulations, and specialized Voronoi tessellations adapted to martensitic orientations, were used to investigate shear–strain localization, and dislocation-density evolution in martensitic microstructures under dynamic compressive loading conditions. The formulation is based on accounting for variant morphologies and orientations, secondary-phase structures, and initial dislocations-densities that are uniquely inherent to martensitic microstructures. The effects of strain rate and inclusions on the evolution of shear–strain localization were investigated. The analysis indicates that variant morphology and orientations have a direct consequence on dislocation-density accumulation and inelastic localization in martensitic microstructures, and that lath directions, orientations, and arrangements are critical characteristics of high-strength martensitic dynamic behavior. It is shown that tensile hydrostatic pressure due to the unloading of the plastic waves at the free boundary and extensive shear–strain accumulation occurs at certain triple junctions. Furthermore, plastic shear-slip accumulation between inclusions and the surrounding martensitic matrix results in shear–strain localization and increases in the tensile hydrostatic pressure at critical locations, such as trip junctions.