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Hydrogen Embrittlement in Austenitic Stainless Steels: A Review of Testing Methods and Standardization Challenges

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Abstract:

Hydrogen plays a key role in global decarbonization efforts, especially in the transition of existing natural gas infrastructure to hydrogen-natural gas (H2/NG) blends. However, the introduction of hydrogen into existing pipelines presents significant materials science challenges, particularly in the areas of hydrogen embrittlement (HE) mechanisms, degradation thresholds, and pipeline steel compatibility. This article reviews current industrial practices of hydrogen blending, embrittlement mechanisms, the behavior of the main pipeline material groups, and the applied testing and standardization methods, with particular emphasis on impact test, tensile test, slow strain rate test (SSRT), and determination of diffusible hydrogen in welded joints. Standardization of hydrogen testing of austenitic stainless steels shows significant shortcomings, as in contrast to the extensive test descriptions, standards and decades of practical data sets available for carbon steels there is no similarly comprehensive, standardized methodological background available for these materials. The review also highlights the differences between austenitic and carbon steels in terms of hydrogen-related degradation and the applicability of standardized testing methods. This lack makes reliable and comparable classification of hydrogen resistance in austenitic steels difficult. The aim of this study is to provide a summary, research-based guideline for harmonizing material qualification practices related to hydrogen.

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Periodical:

Advances in Science and Technology (Volume 181)

Pages:

339-351

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.4028/p-KB9QSb

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Online since:

August 2026

Authors:

Janos Fajger*, Raghawendra P.S. Sisodia

Keywords:

Hydrogen Blending, Hydrogen Embrittlement (HE), Hydrogen-Resistant Steels, Material Testing, Slow Strain Rate Test (SSRT), Thermal Desorption Analysis (TDA)

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© 2026 Trans Tech Publications Ltd. All Rights Reserved

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