Multi-phase Microstructures and Their Properties in High Strength Low Carbon Steels

Abstract

It has been known for some time that steel microstructures are almost always composed of mixtures of phases and microconstituents. It has also been recognized that the minor phase can often exert a major influence on the final mechanical properties of structural steels. Over the last two decades, several important advances have been made in terms of the properties which have become attainable in these steels. These advances have occurred largely through a better understanding of the control of multi-phase microstructures. The paper reviews the benefits that have accompanied a better understanding of these complex microstructures.