Dynamic model of supersonic martensitic crystal growth

The basic features of martensitic transformations are reviewed using the fcc-bcc (bct) transformation in iron alloys as an example. Supersonic crystal growth is believed to be due to a master wave process initiated by an excited (oscillatory) state that arises in the elastic field of a dislocation. Topics discussed include the mechanism by which nonequilibrium electrons generate (amplify) master waves; the optimum range of parameters for wave generation; the dependence of the transformation onset temperature on the polycrystal size; and the formation of transformation twins due to the coordinated action of relatively short and relatively long wavelength waves. Future research prospects are briefly discussed.