Analysis of Deformation Textures and Microstructure in ECAE Processed Copper Single Crystals via Route C

Equal channel angular extrusion (ECAE) is an effective means of producing ultrafine-grained materials with extraordinary mechanical properties. Texture evolution and microstructure in pure copper single crystals processed by ECAE for up to five passes via route C are investigated to understand mechanisms of plastic deformation and grain refinement during ECAE. The experimental textures after the third pass ECAE process recovers that after one pass ECAE process. The main textures approaches a stable one after four passes of ECAE process via Route C while the intensity of main texture components decreases gradually. Local TEM-OIM measurements shows that grain subdivision in ECAE-processed samples occurs with the formation of many low angle grain boundaries.