Structure evolution in copper resulting from the effect of powerful current pulses

Features of structure formation and changes in microhardness of pre-deformed copper 99.9% Cu resulted from the effect of current pulses of high density (∼10 kA/mm²) and short durability (∼10² µs) at the heating rate of 10⁶–10⁷ K/s have been studied. The changes occurring are interpreted as a result of a rapid rate process of thermally activated recrystallization. The characteristics of the process are compared with the ones taking place during thermal annealing. The mechanisms responsible for the differences observed are discussed.