MECHANISM OF STRESS CORROSION CRACKING OF AUSTENITIC STAINLESS STEEL

Abstract

Polarization curves in hot concentrated chloride solutions show that stress corrosion cracking is associated with breakdown of passivity at relatively less noble potentials. Surface roughness after plastic deformation has a significant influence on the susceptibility to cracking-the rougher the more susceptible. Thus, susceptible SUS 27 shows rougher surface while steels with low P and N content, with high Ni or C content have smoother surface after deformation. Susceptible steels tend to give large potential shift on straining, indicating severe anodicdissolution at local anode. Combined action by aqueous chloride solutions is considered.