Realistic microstructural morphology-based Representative Volume Elements for modeling the mechanical response of multi-phase steels

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Multi-phase steels are widely used in automotive structures owing to their low weight and high yield strength. The latter is on account of the interplay between the hard Martensite and softer ferrite or Baininte structures. High strength can be achieved by engineering the size, distribution and spacing between the two phases. Tailoring the microstructure in this fashion is currently achieved by trial-and-error. We propose to develop a way to develop a mathematical model of the microstructure so that the strength can be analyzed using computer simulations. Using currently available microstructures, we propose to develop a workflow for digitizing the microstructure and importing the mathematical model into a commercial software wherein it can be subjected to deformation reminiscent of forces the steel will experience during manufacturing. The foregoing is a powerful tool for engineering the microstructure of dual-phase steels.