Macroscopic behaviour versus dislocation substructures development under cyclic shear tests on the aluminium–3004 alloy

Cyclic shear tests of various amplitudes have been carried out on aluminium–3004 alloys. The macroscopic behaviour shows the occurrence of either cyclic softening or cyclic hardening, depending on the initial state of the alloy (recrystallised, recovered or extra-hardened). This macroscopic behaviour is discussed with the help of both isotropic and kinematic concepts and in connection with the texture, the development of dislocation substructures and its evolution upon straining.