In Situ Experiments: Paving Ways for Rapid Development of Structural Metallic Materials for a Sustainable Future

In situ characterization, experiments provide multi-scale hyperdimensional data on the evolution of microstructure, texture and residual stress as a function of external stimuli providing direct evidence of operative mechanisms as they happen. Combined with computational approaches high throughput in situ or in operando experiments provide a robust methodology for mechanistic mechanism-guided materials and process development. The advancement of high throughput experiments using different probes like visible light, electrons, neutrons and x-rays combined with peripheral equipment enable probing of the different classes of materials over a wide range of processing and service conditions with valuable information in real-time. The development of the materials genome initiative and integrated computational materials engineering have reduced the timeframe for materials and process development and in situ characterization forms an integral part of this approach. In the present review, we highlight different in situ characterization techniques that have helped in unravelling fundamental processes in deformation, recrystallization, phase transformation and failure of metallic materials and components in service. A kaleidoscopic view of the journey of the materials science community through the in situ experimentation landscape with a major focus on research in complex concentrated alloys and additive manufacturing will be followed with a roadmap and a wish list for the future.

Automated summary

In situ characterization experiments provide a robust methodology for materials and process development, proving direct evidence of operative mechanisms and offering valuable real-time information.