hidrogénembrittlement

Hydrogen embrittlement is a phenomenon where certain metals, particularly high-strength steels, become brittle and susceptible to fracture after absorbing hydrogen. This absorption can occur during various processes, including electroplating, acid pickling, welding, and even in environments where hydrogen is present. The hydrogen atoms are small enough to diffuse into the metal's lattice structure.

Once inside the metal, hydrogen atoms can congregate at internal defects, such as grain boundaries or dislocations. This accumulation of hydrogen can lead to a reduction in the material's ductility and toughness. The presence of hydrogen can lower the stress required for crack initiation and propagation. When subjected to stress, a component experiencing hydrogen embrittlement may fail suddenly and catastrophically, often with little or no prior warning.

The susceptibility to hydrogen embrittlement varies significantly with the type of metal, its strength level, and the environmental conditions. High-strength steels are generally more prone than lower-strength steels. Mitigation strategies involve controlling hydrogen sources during manufacturing, using protective coatings, heat treatments to remove absorbed hydrogen, and selecting materials that are less susceptible to this degradation. Understanding and preventing hydrogen embrittlement is crucial for ensuring the safety and reliability of many engineered components.