Rate Effects in the Deformation of Microscale Metallic Samples – Experiments and Simulations

In spite of numerous experimental studies on mechanical properties of metallic materials at the microscale, strain-rate effects are seldom explored, especially at strain rates above 1/s. In order to elucidate the deformation mechanisms and dislocation dynamics at different loading rates, as well as how these processes at atomic scales determine the apparent mechanical properties, we will establish a comprehensive protocol combining precise micromechanical testing, detailed sample characterization, and advanced computation techniques.