Effects of Applied Cathodic Current on Hydrogen Infusion, Embrittlement, and Corrosion-Induced Hydrogen Embrittlement Behaviors of Ultra-High Strength Steel for Automotive Applications

The effects of the electrogalvanizing conditions (a combination plating current and time) on hydrogen infusion, embrittlement, corrosion-induced embrittlement (HE) behaviors ultra-high strength steel were examined. A range experimental analytical methods, including electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, permeation, polarization, slow strain rate test, employed. results showed that applied cathodic density during had an inverse relationship with Zn crystalline size. smaller longer time led to a larger size, resulting in higher infusion atoms, HE-sensitivity (i.e., mechanical degradation secondary crack fracture surface). On other hand, shorter caused anodic dissolution polarization resistance coating when exposed neutral aqueous environments. Hence, galvanic corrosion between substrate (e.g., locally damaged areas around layer) resulted atoms HE-sensitivity. This study provides insight into desirable for electro-Zn steels enhanced induced by corrosion.