Texture and strain localization prediction using a N-site polycrystal model

Most polycrystal models of plastic deformation rely on the assumption that, strain and stress are uniform within the domain of each grain. Comparison between measured and predicted textures suggests that this assumption is re alistic for most single-phase aggregates and crystal symmetries. In this pa per, we implement a self-consistent N-site model that allows one to account for strain localization and local misorientation near grain boundaries. We apply this model to face centered cubic (fcc) and hexagonal close packed ( hcp) aggregates, and analyze the similarities and differences with a one-si te model that assumes uniform stress and strain-rate within a grain. We fin d that the assumption of uniformity is justified in first order. We discuss the implications of the N-site model for the simulation of systems with ha rd inclusions, orientation correlations, and recrystallization mechanisms. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.