The True Shape of Persistent Slip Markings in Fatigued Metals

Persistent slip markings (PSMs) were experimentally studied in 316L steel fatigued to early stages of the fatigue life. High resolution SEM, combined with focused ion beam (FIB) technique and atomic force microscopy (AFM) were used to assess the true shape of PSMs in their early stage of development. General features of PSMs in fatigued metals are extrusions and intrusions. Their characteristic features were determined. They were discussed in relation with the theories of surface relief formation and fatigue crack initiation based on the formation, migration and annihilation of point defects in the bands of intensive cyclic slip - persistent slip bands (PSBs)