High resolution digital image correlation for microstructural strain analysis of a stainless steel repaired by Directed Energy Deposition

Deformations within a microstructural gradient zone of stainless steel repaired specimens are investigated. The repair, added material by Directed Energy Deposition over a hot rolled sheet substrate, was tested in monotonic tensile experiments. In situ tests, scanning electron microscope images combined with high resolution digital image correlation and electron backscatter diffraction maps, permitted to monitor the local strain distribution. The strain distribution is homogeneous in the substrate and exhibits a heterogeneous pattern in the printed part with localization correlating spatially with the position of interlayers. The vicinity of the interface has smaller strains and exhibits larger hardness.