Size effects and length scales in gradient plasticity and dislocation dynamics

Deformation in metals is size dependent over length scales ranging from a few nanometers to 100 μm. Two frameworks, dislocation dynamics and gradient plasticity, each having a length scale with different interpretation are discussed. It is suggested that various dislocation arrangements produce different physical behavior with different gradients and length scales. © 2002 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved