Single and multiple slip activation and heterogeneity in single and oligocrystal Ni fatigue identified.
HR-DIC measurements quantify slip heterogeneity and localization in single and oligocrystal Ni fatigue.
Crystal plasticity models replicate single and oligocrystals in bend fatigue loading.
Unconstrained (single crystal) and constrained (grain boundary) effects quantified.
Grain boundaries and crystallographic orientation combinations provide constraint leading to preferential fatigue hotspots.