LAUSR

Abstract A novel processing strategy was proposed, first to promote Mn partitioning behavior during intercritical annealing, second to improve the fraction and stability of retained austenite (RA) and third to enhance mechanical properties of Mn-reduced transformation-induced plasticity (TRIP) steel. By deliberately preparing large-fractioned Mn-enriched cementite before final annealing, the intercritical austenite  was encouraged to inherit relatively high Mn content from pre-existing cementite. Eventually, the formation of sufficiently stable RA together with the precipitation of fine VC particles in ferritic matrix contributes to much better yield strength-tensile strength-ductility combination of 763 MPa-1022 MPa-46.4%, which is superior to many steels containing higher Mn concentrations.