Materials Today Communications, cilt.51, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
This study examines the influence of defect geometry on hydrostatic stress and hydrogen accumulation at crack tips during hydrogen diffusion in metallic materials, specifically iron, aluminum, and titanium. A coupled stress–diffusion framework is employed to evaluate how variations in defect width and length affect stress distribution and hydrogen transport under different environmental conditions. The results indicate that defect geometry plays a critical role in hydrogen embrittlement behavior, with defect width exerting a stronger influence than defect length. Wider defects reduce crack-tip hydrostatic stress, leading to lower hydrogen accumulation and a decreased risk of hydrogen-induced cracking, while increased defect length shows a comparatively moderate effect. In addition, environmental pH significantly affects hydrogen diffusion, with acidic conditions promoting hydrogen accumulation and neutral to alkaline environments mitigating embrittlement susceptibility. Material-dependent diffusion behavior is also observed, highlighting the combined effects of mechanical stress, defect geometry, and environmental factors. Overall, the findings emphasize the importance of controlling both geometric and environmental parameters to minimize hydrogen embrittlement and enhance the structural integrity of metallic components.