Modelling and Simulation of Materials Microstructure and Properties

The course is given every second year, next time fall 2014.
The course gives an introduction to a selection of models and methods for the modelling and computer simulation of materials nano-/microstructure and mechanical properties of metals and alloys. Emphasis will be on the evolution of microstructure and associated mechanical properties during thermo-mechanical processing and aluminium in particular.
Topics that will be covered are: A general introduction to modelling and computer simulation in materials science and technology; models and modelling tools at different length scales (from the atomic scale to the continuum level); precipitation modelling, modelling of deformation and annealing textures; modelling of substructure evolution and work hardening during plastic deformation; modelling of recovery, recrystallization and grain growth during subsequent annealing.
The physics behind as well as basic structure and construction of a selection of in-house models will be presented and some hands-on training will be given.

After completed the course the students should have in-depth knowledge about and user experience with a broad spectrum of models and simulation tools of use in materials science and engineering, with emphasis on models describing deformation behaviour and softening phenomena during thermo-mechanical processing of aluminium alloys.
After completed the course the students should be able to:
• Describe the main principles of model concepts and simulation tools for the calculation/simulation of microstructure evolution in metals at different length scales.
• Describe the experimental and theoretical basis for relevant models for the evolution of sub-structure and work hardening of fcc metals during plastic deformation
• Account for the main principles and mathematical formulation of “state-of-the-art” models for deformation textures in metals
• Describe the experimental and theoretical basis for relevant models for the evolution of grain structure and texture during annealing of metals which have been plastically deformed by e.g. sheet rolling or extrusion, i.e models for recovery and recrystallization
• Describe the experimental and theoretical basis for relevant models for precipitation and precipitation hardening in age-hardenable aluminium alloys, and how this relates to mechanical strength.
• Operate relevant models to make predictions, and to analyze and discuss the evolution of microchemistry, microstructure (grain structure), texture and related mechanical properties during thermo-mechanical processing of aluminium alloys..
• Account for the potential and limitations of a range of models and for a selection of available in-house models in relation to their applications for industrial processing conditions.

The course will be a combination of lectures, colloquia, and self studies. In addition there will be a set of exercises (computer exercises) which will give introduction to and training in the use of selected models to simulate the evolution of microstructure and texture during thermomechanical processing of aluminium alloys. The exercises involve a written report to be handed in.