Tensile behavior of hydrogen-charged 316L stainless steel at elevated temperatures

We examined the high-temperature tensile properties of 316L austenite stainless steel (SS) cathodically charged with hydrogen (H) and discussed how the H distribution, strain rate, and temperature range affected the mechanical properties of 316L SS at elevated temperatures, with particular focus on dynamic strain aging (DSA). A preheat treatment was applied prior to each high-temperature tensile test to lessen the H gradient on the outer surface of the specimen. DSA, manifested by serrations in the stress–strain curve, was observed at temperatures between 400 and 500 °C and was analyzed using strain-rate sensitivity, dynamic strain–hardening stress, and the temperature dependence of critical serration strain. In particular, this study confined its scope to the influence of H in the range of a few tens of parts per million.