Dislocation gliding in a freestanding film submitted to uniaxial stress

The article delves into the theoretical analysis of edge dislocation behavior in freestanding thin films subjected to uniaxial stress. Using Peach-Koehler force analysis, it examines the equilibrium positions of dislocations in gliding planes inclined to the film's free surfaces. The study reveals that the number and stability of these positions depend on the inclination angle and applied stress. In stress-free conditions, films exhibit two unstable and one stable position for certain angles, transitioning to a single unstable position beyond a critical angle. Under uniaxial stress, the film maintains three positions within a narrow stress range, reducing to one unstable position outside this range. The findings offer insights into the plasticity of thin films, setting the stage for further investigations into dislocation dynamics and their impact on material properties.