Accession Number:

ADA010548

Title:

Ion Microprobe Analysis for Niobium Hydride in Hydrogen Embrittled Niobium.

Descriptive Note:

Technical rept.,

Corporate Author:

ILLINOIS UNIV URBANA DEPT OF METALLURGY AND MINING ENGINEERING

Personal Author(s):

• Birnbaum,Howard K.
• Grossbeck,Martin L.
• Williams,Peter
• Evans,Charles A. , Jr

Report Date:

1975-04-01

Pagination or Media Count:

12.0

Abstract:

Hydrogen embrittled niobium samples have been examined in an ion microprobe to verify the mechanism of embrittlement by stress induced precipitation of hydride. A fractured Nb-2 at. H sample was examined in detail. Mass analyzed images of the fracture region of the sample were obtained using Nb, NbH, H, and NbO ions. The images clearly demonstrate the presence of a hydrogen-rich phase at the fracture site. NbHNb ratios at the fracture site and away from it appear characteristic of niobium hydride and Nb-H solid solution respectively. Scanning electron microscope and electron diffraction studies together with the ion microprobe analysis provide strong evidence in support of the theory of hydrogen embrittlement by stress-induced precipitation of niobium hydride.

Descriptors:

• *FRACTURE(MECHANICS)
• *NIOBIUM
• *HYDROGEN EMBRITTLEMENT
• STRESSES
• HYDRIDES
• ELECTRON MICROSCOPY
• SURFACES
• PRECIPITATION
• ELECTRON DIFFRACTION

Subject Categories:

• Metallurgy and Metallography

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE