Mechanism and prediction of hydrogen embrittlement based on complex phase structure of chromium alloy steel

Hydrogen embrittlement has become a nightmare for high strength metal materials. Taking chromium alloy steel as an example, A cross scale simulation consisting of phase diagram calculations, first-principles calculations and finite element calculations based on stochastic model have been carried out to predict hydrogen embrittlement. A group of alloy steels with different Cr content were prepared and characterized, which proved that they had approximate properties on other key factors affecting hydrogen embrittlement sensitivity. The sensitivity of hydrogen embrittlement was characterized by electrochemical hydrogen charging and slow strain rate tensile (SSRT) experiments, and a similar rule with the cross scale simulation was obtained. It provides a new way for predicting hydrogen embrittlement of metals.

Automated summary

Hydrogen embrittlement is a major concern for high strength metal materials. By combining phase diagram calculations, first-principles calculations, and finite element calculations, a new method has been developed to predict hydrogen embrittlement sensitivity in chromium alloy steel. Characterization of different Cr content alloy steels confirmed similar properties in key factors affecting hydrogen embrittlement sensitivity. Experimental tests further validated the predictive capabilities of the cross scale simulation method.