The interaction between vacancies and edge dislocations in face centered cubic metals was studied at various length-scales. Using empirical potentials and static relaxation, atomic simulations furnished a precise description of this interaction; mainly in the case where the separation distance between the defects was small. At greater distances, elasticity theory could be used to predict the interaction. By comparing the approaches, the minimal separation distance at which elasticity applied was obtain and an estimation was made of the degree of refinement required for calculations. Isotropic and anisotropic elasticity was used, assuming a perfect or dissociated edge dislocation. The size effect, as well as the inhomogeneity interaction, was considered.

The Vacancy–Edge Dislocation Interaction in FCC Metals - a Comparison between Atomic Simulations and Elasticity Theory. E.Clouet: Acta Materialia, 2006, 54[13], 3543-5