Hydrogen Delayed Fracture of TRIP Steel by Small Punch Test

The strain-induced phase transformation from austenite to martensite is responsible for the high strength and ductility of TRIP steels. However high strength steels are susceptible to hydrogen embrittlement. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of hydrogen on the behavior of hydrogen delayed fracture in TRIP steel with hydrogen charging conditions. The electrochemical hydrogen charging was conducted at each specimen with varying current density and charging time. The relationship between hydrogen concentration and mechanical properties of TRIP steel was established by SP test and SEM fractography. The maximum loads and displacements of the TRIP steel in SP test decreased with increasing hydrogen charging time. The results of SEM fractography investigation revealed typical brittle mode of failure. Thus it was concluded that hydrogen delayed fracture in TRIP steel result from the diffusion of hydrogen through the ` phase.