Deformation Mechanisms

Deformation mechanisms are the ways materials change shape under stress. They include processes like dislocation movement, where tiny defects within the material slide past each other, allowing the material to stretch or bend. In some cases, materials deform through twinning, where parts of the structure shift symmetrically, or by grain boundary sliding, where grains within the material slide past each other. These mechanisms determine whether a material deforms plastically (permanently) or elastically (temporarily). Understanding these processes helps in designing materials with desired strength, flexibility, and durability in various applications.