"Critical Evaluation of Combined Accelerated Electrochemical and Mechanical Techniques for Predicting Long-term Hydrogen Transport and Embrittlement in Structural Metals." 

Ana Sofia Armendariz, MSE PhD Candidate 

Advisor: Professor David F. Bahr

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ABSTRACT

Hydrogen embrittlement (HE) remains a critical concern for structural metals, including steels, titanium, and nickel alloys, due to hydrogen-induced degradation of mechanical properties. This review critically evaluates combined accelerated electrochemical and mechanical techniques for predicting hydrogen transport and embrittlement under controlled laboratory conditions. Electrochemical methods, including Devanathan–Stachurski permeation cells and potentiostatic/galvanostatic hydrogen charging, enable precise control and measurement of hydrogen uptake, diffusivity, and trapping. Mechanical approaches, such as slow strain rate tensile (SSRT) and small punch testing, quantify hydrogen-induced reductions in ductility, toughness, and fracture resistance at macro and micro levels. Comparative analysis of steel, titanium, and nickel systems demonstrates the influence of crystal structure, microstructural defects, and alloy composition on hydrogen behavior and embrittlement susceptibility. The review identifies methodological gaps and proposes an integrated experimental framework for accelerated, reproducible evaluation across multiple structural metals, providing insights critical for the safe deployment of hydrogen-based technologies and next-generation energy infrastructure.