Abstract. The main aim of this work was to develop a model with predictive capability for microstructural evolution during recrystallization and to identify factors that exert the greatest effect on the development of texture. To achieve this aim, geometric and crystallographic observations from two orthogonal sections through a polycrystal were used as input to the computer simulations, to create a statistically representative three-dimensional model. Assignment of orientations to the grains was performed so as to optimize agreement between the orientation and misorientation distributions of assigned and observed orientations. The microstructures thus created were allowed to evolve using a Monte Carlo simulation. As a demonstration of the model the effects of anisotropy, both in energy and in mobility, stored energy and oriented nucleation (ON) on overall texture development were studied. The results were analyzed with reference to the various established competing theories of ON and oriented growth. The results suggested that all of ON, mobility anisotropy, stored energy and energy anisotropy (listed in order of their relative importance) influence texture development. It was also determined that comparison of simulated and measured textures throughout the recrystallization process is a more severe test of a model than the typical comparison of textures only at the end of the process.

Print publication: Issue 1 (January 2009)
Received 22 February 2008, in final form 20 October 2008
Published 25 November 2008