Crystal Structures and Mechanical Properties of Fe–Zn Intermetallic Compounds Formed in the Coating Layer of Galvannealed Steels

Abstract

The crystal structures of all intermetallics of the Fe–Zn system have been investigated by synchrotron X-ray diffraction combined with atomic-resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy, in order to elucidate a basic principle based on which these crystal structures are constructed. The plastic deformation behavior of all these Fe–Zn intermetallics have also been investigated by micropillar compression testing at room temperature, with the use of small-scale pillar specimens of micrometer size, in order to elucidate operative slip systems and their critical resolved shear stress values. The observed deformation behavior is discussed in the light of the deduced building principle of the crystal structures.