Work

Nonlinear chemomechanical modeling of hydrogen diffusion in super duplex stainless steel and comparison with x-ray diffraction measurements

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: A coupled hydrogen (H) diffusion and higher-order strain gradient plasticity model is used to predict H localization in the ferrite ($\alpha$) and austenite ($\gamma$) phases of super duplex steel under plane stress conditions. The geometry and finite element (FE) mesh are derived from optical micrograph images of the phase morphology, ensuring a realistic representation of the alloy's microstructure. The model highlights the role of individual phases in coupled diffusion–mechanics interactions and demonstrates that the phase morphology significantly impacts the localization of H in the material. The results indicate that plastic strains in the ferrite phase exert a much greater influence on the spatial distribution of H than in the austenite phase. Finally, results of the model compare well with in situ X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements of the temporal evolution of the strain induced by H charging. These findings provide valuable insight for future alloy design strategies aimed at mitigating H localization and preventing embrittlement.

Source: International Journal of Plasticity

DOI: 10.1016/j.ijplas.2025.104546

Authors: David Lindblom, Menghao Liu, Jinshan Pan, Robin Woracek, Carl F.O. Dahlberg

Institutions: KTH Royal Institute of Technology, European Spallation Source

Language: English

Topic: Hydrogen embrittlement and corrosion behaviors in metals

Subfield: Metals and Alloys

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,740

Funder: Vetenskapsrådet