Influence of Matrix Strength and Volume Fraction of Mg‐PSZ on the Cyclic Deformation Behavior of Hot Pressed TRIP/TWIP‐Matrix Composite Materials

Particle reinforced metal matrix composites (MMCs) based on high‐alloyed CrMnNi steels and partially stabilized zirconia (Mg‐PSZ) are produced using the hot pressing technique. The resulting materials differ in the chemical composition of the high‐alloyed steel matrix and volume fraction of Mg‐PSZ. The change of chemical composition has a substantial influence on the austenite stability and stacking fault energy, triggering different deformation mechanisms in terms of the deformation‐induced transformation of austenite into ϵ‐ and/or α′‐martensite and/or deformation‐induced twinning. MMCs with 5 and 10 vol% Mg‐PSZ as well as unreinforced steels are investigated in total strain controlled fatigue tests. The focus of this work is to clarify the effect of the matrix strength and Mg‐PSZ volume fraction on the cyclic deformation behavior. This includes the discussion of cyclic hardening and/or softening during fatigue tests, consequences on the fatigue life times and deformation‐induced microstructures.