4. Conclusion

In order to optimize the hydrogen embrittlement desensitization process, we need to improve our understanding of the problems associated with hydrogenation of hardened, electrolytically-coated products under stress during use. From the results presented and their discussion, it is worth noting that :

• In a manufacturing range, hydrogenating operations include heat treatments (when carried out in a carburizing atmosphere), certain chemical pickling operations and electrolytic or chemical surface treatments;

• hydrogen introduced during electrolytic or chemical surface treatment is mainly found in the coating (hydrogen partition concept);

• it's the stressing of hardened, hydrogenated steel that embrittles the product. This embrittlement results in the loss of the product's plasticity....