Effects of hydrogen on mechanical properties of metals for nuclear fusion and hydrogen energy systems

Zero carbon energy systems are needed urgently.  Both nuclear fusion and hydrogen have been identified by the UK government as having a key role in future energy systems. Hydrogen is also central to fusion power as isotopes of hydrogen are fused in the nuclear reaction that powers it. However hydrogen is well known to have a deleterious effect on the mechanical properties of many metallic systems. These can include magnesium alloys for hydrogen storage, platinum and palladium in fuel cells, pearlitic and bainitic steels in hydrogen transmission, or tungsten and ferritic/martensitic steels in fusion.

In all cases the effect that hydrogen has on basic mechanical properties is not well understood and an improved understanding will accelerate the development of a zero carbon energy systems. Using a new in-situ electrochemical nanoindentation cell this project will compare the mechanical behaviour of industrially important metals with and without hydrogen charging. By working with nanomechanical testing methods we will be able to correlate the effect of hydrogen on the local microstructural environment around the mechanical test. Combinations of ex-situ and in-situ nano-mechanical testing, will be used along with SEM, HR-EBSD, and AFM characterisation.