Hydrogen embrittlement of steels: mechanisms

Although hydrogen embrittlement phenomena (HEP) have been extensively studied in recent decades, the problem remains a topical one. From a theoretical point of view, our understanding of the basic mechanisms is still incomplete, and further research is still needed.

Because of its small size, the hydrogen atom can diffuse relatively easily into steels, even at low temperatures. Within the material, it can interact with microstructural defects. Hydrogen-dislocation interactions form the basis of the most recent theories on hydrogen embrittlement.

For a general study of hydrogen embrittlement of steels, please refer to the article :

Hydrogen embrittlement of steels: study and prevention

The first part of this study appeared in this section (reference ).