Example: Sharp deformation lines on sample, Mag. 200 X, DIC.
There are two types of deformation, elastic and plastic. Elastic
deformation dissappears when the applied load is removed. Plastic
deformation may also be refered to as cold work. It can result in
subsurface defects after grinding, lapping or polishing. Remaining
plastic deformation can first be seen after polishing. Only deformation
introduced during the preparation is covered here. All others types
from previous oprations like bending, drawing and stretching is
not considered, bacause it can not be changed or improved by changing
the preparation method. Deformations are artifacts which first show up
after etching (chemical, physical or also optical etching).
Reference: Metalog Guide, page 68-69,
Struers A/S, 2610 Rodovre, Dennmark.
Note: Image and text by courtesy of Struers A/S company.