Assessment of Martensitic Transformation Paths Based on Transformation Potential Calculations

Transformation potentials for two different martensitic transformation paths are calculated and compared to experimentally measured austenite textures of an SAE 201 stainless steel. The authors conclude that the gamma -> epsilon -> alpha' transformation path is a better match than the gamma -> alpha ' transformation path, based on comparison of the texture evolution and transformation potentials. However, significant plastic deformation is also observed in these samples which occurs simultaneously with the transformation. The values of transformation potentials also demonstrate that the transformation path may also be a function of crystal orientation and stress state, in addition to the effect of stacking fault energy (SFE).