Data-analysis method for hydrogen embrittlement tuning-fork test

Abstract

A new data-analysis method is proposed for processing time-force data obtained from a recently developed novel tuning-fork test that has been utilized in hydrogen embrittlement studies. The analysis method is based on the application of suitable functions that are shown to provide a good fit to the data. The fitted functions allow for the calculation of first- and second-order time derivatives from the initially scattered data. The negative peaks of the second-order derivatives of the fitted functions can be associated with the more sudden changes that could be observed in the experimental data. Since these sudden changes are expected to be related to the operation of the mechanisms at the microstructural level, the present analysis provides a potentially useful method for obtaining knowledge of the operation of these mechanisms.