ABSTRACT
IHE (Internal hydrogen embrittlement) Reversible (ductility can be restored provided that microscopic cracks have not yet initiated); also termed slow strain rate embrittlement and delayed failure. This type of embrittlement is referred to as the classic type of hydrogen embrittlement in steel although IHE has also been observed in a wide variety of other materials including nickel-base alloys and austenitic stainless steels provided that they are severely charged with hydrogen. For steels, IHE is most severe at room temperature. The problem results primarily from electroplating. Other sources of hydrogen are the processing treatments such as melting and pickling.
