PI: Chongmin Wang

This project aims to address the capability gaps on in-situ TEM shear deformation and correspondingly knowledge gaps in atomic-scale understanding of material microstructures evolution under shear deformation. We have developed a new generation of in-situ TEM capability for shear deformation which is used to probe into the shear deformation of alloys. We have captured unprecedented scientific insight on shear-induced crystal defects formation, motion, and their correlation with atomic-scale mass transport and mixing that leads to the formation of new phases and persistently metastable microstructures during solid phase processing (SPP). The results obtained using the in-situ TEM capabilities, as corroborated with MD simulation, enable fundamental and predictive understanding of the shear deformation process. The outcome of the project offers insights on directing shear deformation to achieve persistently metastable microstructures in metals and alloys. The new in-situ TEM capabilities will impact other field of research, such as energy storage.