Characterization of UFG materials by X-ray and Neutron diffraction

Grain size, subgrain size, microstrain, dislocation density and dislocation types and intergranular strains determine the mechanical, chemical and other physical properties in materials of submicron grain size. Electron microscopy is a straightforward method to determine the substructure. X-ray and neutron diffraction methods supplement dynamic properties, especially strains and stresses and number densities of substructure elements. The synergy of electron microscopy and diffraction patterns provides a more comprehensive characterization of the substructure and a better understanding of the performance of ultra-fine-grain (UFG) materials.