⚠️ The Hydrogen Embrittlement Problem
Hydrogen embrittlement is the leading cause of catastrophic failure in H2 infrastructure. Standard metals become brittle and crack under hydrogen exposure, even at room temperature.
ISO 11114-4 provides test methods for selecting metallic materials that resist hydrogen-induced degradation. This is the foundational materials science test for any component exposed to hydrogen.
Why Materials Fail
Hydrogen Infiltration
H2 atoms dissolve into metal lattice structure, weakening atomic bonds
Crack Propagation
Microscopic cracks grow under stress, leading to sudden catastrophic failure
Reduced Ductility
Materials become brittle and lose ability to deform without breaking
Delayed Failure
Embrittlement develops over time - components pass initial tests but fail later
🔬 Testing Methods
Tensile Testing Under H2 Exposure
Measure reduction in ductility and tensile strength after hydrogen charging
Fracture Mechanics
Determine crack growth rates and fracture toughness in hydrogen environment
Slow Strain Rate Testing (SSRT)
Detect susceptibility to hydrogen-induced cracking under slow loading
Metallurgical Analysis
- SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy) for fracture surface analysis
- XRD (X-Ray Diffraction) for phase identification
- Microhardness testing for embrittlement depth
- Hydrogen permeation rate measurement
🎯 Who Needs This Testing?
Component Manufacturers
Valve, fitting, and seal suppliers must prove materials won't fail under H2 exposure
Materials Suppliers
Steel mills and alloy producers need certification for H2-compatible grades
Design Engineers
Material selection for new H2 infrastructure requires embrittlement data
Failure Analysis
Root cause investigation of in-service failures often reveals embrittlement