BelSU Creates Ultra Strong Steel That Combines Strength with Flexibility

Researchers at Belgorod State University have developed an ultra‑strong steel for highly reliable components in transport and agricultural machinery. The breakthrough, reported by TASS, comes from the university’s Research Institute of Materials Science and Innovative Technologies.

The work is part of BelSU’s Priority‑2030 project Technology of Materials and Mechanical Engineering Products. The team aimed to create cost‑effective, low‑alloy steels combining high strength, ductility and impact toughness – specifically, a yield strength exceeding 1100 MPa, elongation above 9 %, and impact toughness over 40 J.

Led by Evgeny Tkachev, a senior researcher and PhD candidate, the team includes young scientists Yulia Tkacheva and postgraduate student Sergey Borisov. In the first year of the project (starting 2025), they achieved steel with a yield strength of 1190 MPa, elongation of 14.1 %, and impact toughness of 66 J – far exceeding targets.

The scientists control the steel’s structure at the microscopic level. Instead of brittle carbide particles, they direct carbon to stabilise austenite, creating a strong “framework” combined with plastic “layers.” This was achieved using advanced quench‑and‑press (Q&P) heat treatment with isothermal holding, guided by computer modelling (Thermo‑Calc, JMatPro) and validated by electron microscopy and X‑ray analysis.

The resulting three‑phase structure – tempered martensite with ultra‑high‑strength bainite and stable austenite – overcomes the classic trade‑off between strength and toughness.

“The new steel is designed for critical components in transport and agricultural machinery, including wear‑resistant parts, suspension and chassis components,” said Tkachev. “OMK JSC is our industrial partner, providing advisory support for real‑world production.”

The development reduces Russia’s dependence on imported high‑strength steels, improves transport energy efficiency, and enhances structural safety. The team plans pilot testing next and has registered a know‑how titled Method for Multi‑Stage Heat Treatment of High‑Strength Steel for Agricultural and Automotive Equipment.