Physical Theory of Plasticity in Crystalline Solids

Abstract

The basic atomistic mechanisms responsible for plastic deformation are described in this paper. The description is mostly restricted to the behaviour of metals because of their relative ease of deformation. The first chapter outlines the description of crystal lattices as far as it is necessary to understand the different deformation mechanisms. The second chapter describes the most important lattice defect responsible for plastic deformation in crystalline solids; the dislocation. The knowledge of dislocation theory enables one to understand the plastic behaviour of pure metal single crystals as well as polycrystals which is outlined in the third chapter. The last chapter deals with the plastic behaviour of crystalline solids at high temperatures where steady deformation at constant loading can occur which is known as creep. The sometimes drastic influence of alloy conditions on the plastic properties (e.e. solid solutions, precipitation, martensitic transformation) are not included in this paper.