Hydrogen Embrittlement of Advanced High-strength Steel S960MC Used in Transport and Vehicle Industry and the Influence of Potassium Thiocyanate during Hydrogenation

Abstract

Advanced high-strength steels (AHSS) are currently facing a serious challenge from hydrogen embrittlement, which significantly affects their mechanical properties. Problems arise when hydrogen diffuses into the material and accumulates at grain boundaries, inclusions, or microcracks, degrading the material's characteristics. The main objective of the study is to investigate the effects of adding potassium thiocyanate (KSCN) to the sulfuric acid base solution during electrolytic hydrogenation using microalloyed martensitic AHSS grade S960MC. An increase in hydrogen diffusion into the examined material across its full surface is produced by adding thiocyanate ions to the electrolyte. This is the rationale behind the decision to add KSCN to the sulfuric acid base solution. The addition of KSCN to the base environment induced a considerable reduction in fracture strain, and the degradation was attributed to hydrogen buildup at grain boundaries, impurities and microcracks. These steels have an extensive list of applications in the automotive industry and are frequently used in the form of sheets for welding. Therefore, it is important to understand how their mechanical characteristics and behaviour vary in various circumstances, including hydrogen-rich environments.