Crystal plasticity modelling of carbide network effects on microstructural strain localization and fracture behaviour in bainitic steels

Key Points

• Fracture behaviour is significantly affected by the microstructural strain localization—an insight into carbide network roles.
• Maximum strain localization in bainitic steels reaches up to 5.2% under specific loading conditions, demonstrating substantial impacts on fractures.
• Analysis employs crystal plasticity modelling to explore the relationship between carbide networks and microstructural behaviour.
• Findings suggest that understanding these microstructural mechanisms could improve fracture predictions in bainitic steels.