Effect of pre-strain on hydrogen embrittlement of high manganese steel

Abstract

The effect of deformation twins on the hydrogen embrittlement (HE) of a twinning-induced plasticity (TWIP) steel with various pre-strain levels, coupled with subsequent annealing treatment was systematically investigated by a slow strain rate tension test after cathodic hydrogen charging. The results revealed that specimens with high twin volume fraction had relatively better HE resistance. The high-density twin boundary not only plays an important role in hindering hydrogen diffusion, but also can refine the grains and inhibit the accumulation of hydrogen, so as to relieve stress concentration and avoid premature fracture of the specimen.