Temperature-Dependent Hydrogen Embrittlement of Austenitic Stainless Steel on Phase Transformation

A critical issue that needs to be addressed for wider utilization of hydrogen as fuel is protection against embrittlement during cryogenic storage it weakens the microstructure bonding force metals through penetration. Austenitic stainless steel, which usually used in vessels and well known its high resistance at room temperature, has also been reported vulnerable under temperatures. In addition, because large are operated over a wide range temperatures, material behavior various temperature conditions should considered. Therefore, present study, charging austenitic steel was performed carrying out prestrain tensile tests. decrease strength elongation an increase yield were observed all cases. particular, case 20% followed by test after showed fracture elastic region. The index evaluated from perspective reduction area, factors indicate degree ductility. aforementioned most severe results, while non-prestraining tests least effected hydrogen. effect strain-induced martensite on analyzed using electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD). It higher greater volume fraction α’ martensite, leads embrittlement. edges center surface scanning microscopy (SEM). hydrogen-charged specimens exhibited brittle fractures ductile center. more embrittlement, number intergranular microdimples edges.