Titanium-based alloys are considered advanced materials due to their high specific strength and outstanding corrosion resistance. However, they are susceptible to hydrogen embrittlement (HE). The HE cases are expected to increase driven by the growing demand for hydrogen.

Nevertheless, the widespread of Ti-6Al-4V produced by traditional methods is limited by the high processing costs compared to competing materials. Also, traditional methods result in significant material waste and expensive manufacturing costs. These shortages are overcome with additive manufacturing (AM) [1,2]. Additionally, AM offers design flexibility and cost-effective component repairs providing a reduced environmental and economic impact [3]. However, assessing its resistance to HE is essential before realizing the benefits in final applications.

The resistance to HE depends significantly on the interaction of hydrogen with microstructural defects, which is significantly influenced by manufacturing route and thermal history. Limited literature exists on the influence of hydrogen on the performance of additively manufactured alloys due to current limitations in characterization techniques and the relative novelty of the AM technology.

This study aims to characterize the interaction of hydrogen with EBM Ti-6Al-4V samples from a multiscale perspective to provide a comprehensive understanding of the main mechanisms involved in the degradation of the material. Hydrogen-assisted cracking behaviour is revealed using a combination of mechanical testing and advanced characterization technique. In addition, the mechanism of hydriding and hydrogen tapping are elucidated.

References

[1] J. Yao, Q. Tan, A, Atrens, M.X. Zhang, Current Opinion in Solid State and Materials Science, 2023, Volume 27, 101106. Doi: 10.1016/j.cossms.2023.101106

[2] M. Borlaug Mathisen, L. Eriksen, Y. Yu, O. Jensurd, J. Hjelen, Transactions of Nonferrous Metals Society of China, 2014, Volume 24, Issue 12, pages 3929-3943. Doi: 10.1016/S1003-6326(14)63553-6

[3] D. Carou, E.M. Rubio, B. Augustina, M.M. Marín, Journal of Cleaner Production, 2017, Volume 164, pages 465-675. Doi: 10.1016/j.jclepro.2017.06.095