Enhancing mechanical properties of medium Mn steel by warm rolling based on laminated elemental segregation

The hot-rolled microstructure of medium Mn steel has coarse grains and severe elemental segregation, resulting in low strength and plasticity. Constructing a multiphase structure, refining the microstructure, and regulating elemental segregation enhance the mechanical properties. In this study, liquid nitrogen treatment created a layered distribution of austenite and martensite. Warm rolling was then used to reduce layer thickness and refine grain structure. After liquid nitrogen and warm rolling treatments, the strength and plasticity of medium Mn steel increased to 1270 MPa and 23.3%, respectively, far exceeding the hot-rolled state (724 MPa, 12.8%). Warm rolling also triggers austenite reverted transformation (ART) and introduces high-density dislocations, further improving austenite stability. This strengthening effect is higher than that from intercritical annealing alone. Improved austenite stability delays the transformation induced plasticity (TRIP) effect, preventing brittle fracture and enhancing deformation coordination between layers, significantly increasing the plastic deformation capacity of medium Mn steel.