Accommodation pathways at heterophase interfaces

Determine whether interfaces between an aluminum matrix and intermetallic phases, or between distinct intermetallic compounds, provide strain-accommodation pathways analogous to those observed in grain boundaries.

Background

The paper applies disconnection-based concepts, traditionally developed for homophase grain boundaries, to chemically complex heterophase interfaces in intermetallic-rich aluminum alloys. The proposed Interface Accommodation Index quantifies interface broadening, roughening, and migration from molecular-dynamics trajectories, but these observables are interpreted as disconnection-consistent signatures rather than direct identification of disconnection activity.

The unresolved issue is whether matrix–intermetallic and intermetallic–intermetallic interfaces can function as accommodation pathways in a manner comparable to grain boundaries. Resolving this question would clarify the mechanistic origin of deformation accommodation in intermetallic-rich alloys and establish the scope of disconnection-mediated descriptions beyond single-phase grain-boundary systems.