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Title: Development of grain boundary chromium depletion in type 304 and 316 stainless steels

Journal Article · · Scr. Metall.; (United States)

Sensitization of austenitic stainless steels is dependent on the thermodynamics of carbide precipitation and the kinetics of chromium diffusion. Heat treatment in, or slow cooling through, the temperature range from 500 to 800/sup 0/C promote intergranular, chromium-rich precipitation and concomitant depletion of chromium in adjacent regions. These local chromium depleted regions are more electrochemically active than the bulk material and may become susceptible to intergranular corrosion and/or stress corrosion in many environments. The ability to adequately predict sensitization behavior in stainless steels requires a better understanding of the development of chromium-depleted regions. The present study examined the development of chromium depletion during isothermal sensitization in high carbon Type 304 and 316 stainless steels. Chromium minimums and concentration profiles were determined at grain boundaries using the STEM-EDS technique. Chromium depletion measurements are discussed in reference to equilibrium and kinetic aspects of existing models for sensitization development in austenitic stainless steels.

Research Organization:
Pacific Northwest Lab., Richland, WA 99352
DOE Contract Number:
AC06-76RL01830
OSTI ID:
5350900
Journal Information:
Scr. Metall.; (United States), Vol. 20:3
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English