Open Access Conference Proceedings

The study is focused on changes in the structural and physical properties of AISI 304 austenitic stainless steel subjected to severe plastic deformation at room temperature. The steel was deformed using two methods: applying compressive forces of 100 kN and 150 kN and using the Dual Rolling Equal Channel Extrusion (DRECE) technique. The presence of -ferrite and/or the partial transformation of paramagnetic austenite into ferromagnetic martensite were evidenced by X-ray diffraction, which confirmed 6 wt.% and 14 wt.% ferromagnetic components after the application of a 150 kN compressive force and DRECE at a surface depth of about 10 μm. The structural changes were also reflected in the bulk magnetic properties of the steel. Compared to the as-cast state, magnetization in a magnetic field of 2 Tesla was approximately six and three times higher after the application of a 150 kN force and DRECE, respectively. These results were supported by metallographic analysis. Recovery of the fully paramagnetic state was achieved after annealing the steel at 950 °C for 30 minutes. The comprehensive experimental characterization of the steel provides valuable information for its usage in practical applications.

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