Evolution of a defect structure during creep tests of ultrafine-grained metals and alloys produced by severe plastic deformation

Using small-angle X-ray scattering, electron microscopy, and density measurements, structural factors have been identified that lead to a decrease in the mechanical stability of ultrafine-grained (UFG) metals and alloys when tested in creep mode at elevated temperatures. It has been established that one of the important factors is nanopores formed during intense plastic deformation. The development of these nanopores in grain boundaries formed during creep is realized by the diffusion mechanism and leads to destruction. The role of dispersed inclusions and high-angle grain boundaries for the strength of UFG metals and alloys under their “short-term” and long-term loading is considered.