Microstructure evolution and SSCC behavior of strain-strengthened 304 SS pre-strained at room temperature and cryogenic temperature

In this work, microstructure and sulfide stress corrosion cracking (SSCC) of 304 stainless steel (SS) pre-strained at cryogenic and room temperature were studied. 304 SS exhibits extremely high SSCC susceptibility, which increases as pre-strain rises for the acceleration of AD and HE. Cryogenic pre-strained specimens present higher SSCC resistance. Pre-strain leads to the formation of strain-induced epsilon and alpha' martensite and increase of crystal defects such as deformation bands, twins, stacking faults and dislocation, which accelerates SSCC. Cryogenic deformation produces more martensite, and the uniform occurrence of microstructure evolution only plays a limited role in SSCC.

Automated summary

In this study, the microstructure and sulfide stress corrosion cracking (SSCC) of 304 stainless steel pre-strained at cryogenic and room temperature were investigated. The susceptibility of SSCC in 304 SS is significantly increased with the rise of pre-strain due to the acceleration of the formation of precipitates and dislocation. Cryogenic pre-strained specimens exhibit higher resistance to SSCC. The development of strain-induced epsilon and alpha' martensite, as well as crystal defects such as deformation bands, twins, stacking faults, and dislocation, caused by pre-strain accelerates the SSCC process. Cryogenic deformation results in more martensite formation, while the uniform occurrence of microstructure evolution only plays a limited role in SSCC.