This study investigates the differences and similarities between bainitic and martensitic structures obtained by isothermal heat treatments such as austempering, quench and partitioning (Q&P), and quench and tempering (Q&T) using a variety of techniques such as X-ray diffraction, electron backscatter diffraction, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, and atom probe tomography. The results show that by varying the isothermal holding temperature, identical austenite concentration may be obtained in ferritic structures that resemble laths. Nonetheless, some diversity in hardness is noted, which is compatible with variations in the crystallographic size distribution of ferritic grains and variations in the precipitation state as shown by the structure’s nanoscale analysis. Doing basic and applied research throughout the lifecycle of metallic materials (extraction, design, production, processing, conservation and recycling) and transferring it to the industry with a staff of 100 scientists and technicians fully trained in the most innovative metallic materials. Metals have determined our life and societies for thousands of years and will continue to do so in any foreseeable future scenario. Metallic materials are crucial for our energy, safety, infrastructure, tools, transport, health care, utensils, and many more aspects of our daily life. Just look around and try to imagine what life would look like without metals. Despite the 5000 years of using metals, we have started understanding metals a bit only 100 years ago, following the discovery of X-rays and elementary particles like the electron and the development of proper microscopes and theoretical insight.

Metallic Microstructures European Lectures Online (MMELO) Universidad Tecnológica de Delft