This paper provides an introduction in the field of severe plastic deformation (SPD). First of all the main methods to produce SPD materials are discussed. In the following section, the mechanisms leading to the formation of fine grains are reviewed and the influence of changes in strain path is highlighted. During post-SPD thermal annealing, some typical microstructural changes take place. The influence of SPD and subsequent annealing on strength, ductility and superplastic properties are reviewed. Finally the paper provides a short overview of fatigue resistance and corrosion properties of those materials.