Recrystallization temperature, also known as the recrystallization point or recrystallization range, refers to the temperature range at which a crystalline material undergoes recrystallization. Recrystallization is a process in which the internal structure of a solid material is rearranged, leading to the formation of new, larger crystals with lower levels of defects and dislocations.
In many materials, including metals and alloys, the recrystallization temperature is usually below the melting point of the material. It is the temperature range at which the material can undergo recrystallization without completely melting. The recrystallization process typically occurs after cold working or plastic deformation, such as rolling, forging, or drawing, which introduces defects and dislocations into the material's crystal structure.
During recrystallization, the material is heated to a temperature within the recrystallization range, which allows the atoms or ions to migrate and rearrange themselves into new crystal structures with lower energy states. This results in the formation of new grains or crystals that are free of defects and possess improved mechanical properties, such as increased ductility and reduced hardness.
The recrystallization temperature is an important parameter in materials science and engineering as it affects the final microstructure and properties of a material. The specific recrystallization temperature can vary depending on factors such as the composition, impurities, and processing history of the material.