Dislocation self-organization processes and crystal plasticity

The theoretical treatment of the evolution of a dislocation ensemble in a plastically deformed real crystal is discussed. Kinetic equations for the dislocation density are formulated which include elementary dislocation processes (source generation, immobilization, multiplication, annihilation, and diffusion) and on the basis of which the first three stages of the crystal's strain-hardening curves are quantitatively analyzed. Dislocation self-organization processes leading to slip localization and various nonuniform dislocation structures are considered. Mechanisms of the formation of slip lines, slip bands, defect-free (annihilation) channels in neutron-irradiated or quenched crystals, and dislocation cellular structures are discussed in detail based on the equations obtained. A comparison of theoretical results with experimental data is made.