FE Simulation of Hydrogen Diffusion in a Duplex Stainless Steel -Influence of Phase Shape and Size and Embedded Defects

ABAQUS FE simulations of hydrogen diffusion in duplex stainless steel have been performed. Hydrogen diffusion has been evaluated as a function of austenite phase size and shape. Hydrogen concentration due to stress and plastic strain close to an embedded flaw has also been evaluated. The work clearly demonstrates that both microstructure and flaws will influence the hydrogen diffusion and the hydrogen concentration and hence, must be taken into account when evaluating the susceptibility of hydrogen stress cracking in duplex stainless steels.