Wasserstoffversprödung

Wasserstoffversprödung, also known as hydrogen embrittlement, is a phenomenon where certain metals lose their ductility and become brittle when exposed to hydrogen. This loss of toughness can lead to unexpected fracture under stress, even at levels far below the material's normal yield strength. The severity of hydrogen embrittlement depends on several factors, including the type of metal, the concentration of hydrogen, the applied stress, and the temperature.

Metals most susceptible to hydrogen embrittlement include high-strength steels, titanium alloys, and some aluminum alloys. Hydrogen atoms, being very small, can diffuse into the metal lattice. Once inside, they can accumulate at internal defects like grain boundaries or dislocations. Under tensile stress, these hydrogen atoms can interfere with the normal deformation mechanisms of the metal, weakening the atomic bonds and promoting crack initiation and propagation.

The sources of hydrogen can be varied. In industrial applications, hydrogen can be present in processing environments, such as during electroplating, welding, or in high-pressure hydrogen gas systems. Corrosive environments can also generate hydrogen through electrochemical reactions. The effects of hydrogen embrittlement can be devastating, leading to component failure in critical applications like pipelines, aircraft components, and pressure vessels. Mitigation strategies often involve careful material selection, controlling the hydrogen content in the environment, or using protective coatings. Heat treatments can also be employed to remove absorbed hydrogen.