D2.5. FEM H-Embrittlement – Abstract

The goal of the present task is to develop a Finite Element Model (FEM) able to predict the hydrogen concentration distribution into structural components made in Advanced High Strength Steel (AHSS). On the basis of the theories already developed, it was chosen a model that considers the principal factors influencing the hydrogen migration (hydrostatic stress, microstructural defects, and plastic strain), but that can be used in industrial applications, because it can be implemented in commercial FE software and doesn’t require many experimental parameters. An FE model was thus implemented in the commercial FE software Ansys Mechanical® and preliminary validation of the FEM was carried out by using standard tests and specimens, namely the incremental step loading with a four-point bending configuration on a notched plate. A new experimental test was devised to validate the model on a component-like specimen, by measuring the local hydrogen concentration with a non-destructive technique.