Interfaces in directionally solidified eutectics

Consideration of the interface between the phases in directionally solidified eutectic structures with respect to its morphology, crystallography, stability, and overall response to internal and external stress fields. Yielding behavior in such eutectic structures is shown to be controlled by several possible mechanisms. Two that can be related to the interface in directionally-solidified eutectic alloys are: (1) the interaction of slip dislocations with interface dislocations of the semicoherent boundaries, and (2) restrictions of allowable deformation mechanisms in two contiguous phases due to orientation effects. Evidence found thus far for elastic-plastic eutectic composites indicates that interfaces are capable of diverting fatigue cracks parallel to the loading axis.