Application of elastic fracture and damage mechanics models for numerical simulation of hydrogen embrittlement in steels

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present a numerical simulation of the hydrogen atomic effect on the steels fracture toughness, as well as on crack propagation using fracture mechanics and continuous damage mechanics models.Design/methodology/approachThe simulation was performed in an idealized elastic specimen with an edge crack loaded in the tensile opening mode, in a plane strain state. In order to simulate the effect of hydrogen in the steel, the stress intensity factor ahead of the crack tip in the hydrogenated material was obtained. The damage model was applied to simulate the growth and crack propagation being considered only two damage components: a mechanical damage produced by a static load and a non‐mechanical damage produced by the hydrogen.FindingsThe simulation results showed that the changes in the stress field at the crack tip and the reduction in the time of growth and crack propagation due to hydrogen effect occur. These results showed a good correlation and consistency with macroscopic observations, providing a better understanding of the hydrogen embrittlement phenomenon in steels.Originality/valueThe paper attempts to link the concepts of the continuous damage and fracture mechanics to achieve a better approach in the representation of the physical phenomenon studied, in order to obtain a more accurate simulation of the processes involved.

Understanding and mitigating hydrogen embrittlement of steels: a review of experimental, modelling and design progress from atomistic to continuum

“…These models have proved to be effective in emulating experimental results for fracture toughness and crack growth rates [26,60]. The work in [26,60] focuses on concurrent dislocation activity and interfacial decohesion by bond breaking in iron and steels.…”

“…A number of models based on the HID theory have been developed in recent decades using both dislocation mechanics and fundamental continuum fracture mechanics. These models have proved to be effective in emulating experimental results for fracture toughness and crack growth rates [26, 60]. The work in [26, 60] focuses on concurrent dislocation activity and interfacial decohesion by bond breaking in iron and steels.…”

“…These models have proved to be effective in emulating experimental results for fracture toughness and crack growth rates [26, 60]. The work in [26, 60] focuses on concurrent dislocation activity and interfacial decohesion by bond breaking in iron and steels. Jokl et al [87] proposed a thermodynamic fracture criterion based on Irwen–Orowan–Griffith theory applicable to crystalline solids which is capable of being plastically deformed.…”