Abstract
Towards high crashworthiness parts through the investigation of microstructural effects on fracture toughness of 3rd generation AHSS (Crash&Tough)
3rd Gen AHSS containing transformable retained austenite are excellent candidates for lightweight construction of high crashworthiness automotive parts. This is due to their complex microstructures with moderated retained austenite contents. Stress induced transformation of retained austenite and the matrix characteristics affect both crack initiation and propagation. Crash&Tough aims to investigate and better understand such microstructural effects to optimize crash resistance. It will be assessed through fracture mechanics tests, advanced characterization techniques and FE modelling to understand crack initiation and propagation in 3rd Gen AHSS and optimize their microstructure for high crashworthiness.
