The Frenkel – Kontorova Chain to Model Dislocation Dynamics in Relation to the Electroplasticity Effect

The electroplasticity effect involves reduced yield stress in deformed metals under pulsed electric currents, unexplained by Joule heating alone. In coarse-grained metals, plastic deformation primarily occurs via dislocation slip, modeled here using Frenkel –Kontorova kinks. This numerical study explores how electric pulses affect dislocation mobility, comparing two mechanisms: Joule heating localized at dislocations and electron wind transferring momentum. Key findings show that, at lower temperatures, Joule heating enhances dislocation mobility more significantly, while higher temperatures favor electron wind dominance. Within an intermediate temperature range, both mechanisms contribute nearly equally to increased plasticity. These insights clarify the interplay of thermal and electronic effects in electroplasticity, addressing long-standing debates on its fundamental mechanisms. The results emphasize context-dependent dominance of Joule heating versus electron wind, advancing theoretical models for electrically assisted metal forming processes.