[en] The various means by which plastic deformations by slip, twinning or kinking are produced by tension of imperfect α uranium single crystals prepared by a β → α phase change, have been studied by X-rays and micrographic examination. Depending on the crystallographic orientation with respect to the direction of the applied tension, and depending on the magnitude of the change in length, the crystals are deformed either preferentially according to a single mechanism, for example twinning, or simultaneously according to two or three mechanisms. The results of a subsequent annealing of the deformed single in the α phase are studied with respect to the deformation mechanisms. In the case of a deformation due primarily to (010) [100], (011) [100] or (110) [001] sliding, there occurs recrystallization by crystal growth selectivity. If the deformation occurs via deformation bands, there is recrystallization by 'oriented nucleation'. The crystals deformed preponderantly by twinning give on recrystallization perfect crystals having optimum dimensions and having orientational characteristics closely related to those of the original crystal. Finally are discussed some criteria relating to the geometry and the dynamics with a view to explaining the occurrence of such and such a deformation mechanism of a single crystal with a given orientation. This study, in conclusion, must help to define the best conditions (crystalline orientation and process of deformation) which will promote the growth of large, perfect, single crystals. (author)