Emerging Behaviour of Alloy Steel Microstructure in Hydrogen Sulphide Environment - A Review

Abstract

Alloy steel is known to be different from carbon steel due to the presence of the alloying element in varying compositions which is usually done for the purpose of modifying and improving the performance of the steel. However, a major problem with the alloy steel is that it usually exhibits different behavior in terms of the microstructures and the mechanical properties, especially, in sulphide environment. Thus, this study focused on the different microstructure of alloy steel and their performance in different environment with strong emphasis in sulphide environment. It was established in the study that a major problem of alloy steel in hydrogen sulphide environment is the sulphide stress cracking which is attributed to the presence of hydrogen and its absorption by the alloy steel. Hence, this study provides a potential guide and information on the capacity of the grades of alloy steel that can thrive in sulphide environment.