In recent years, resource and energy conservation have been promoted to prevent global warming, and in the field of metallic materials, weight reduction of transportation equipment through higher strength is strongly demanded. However, as metallic materials became stronger, they face the problem of an increased susceptibility to hydrogen embrittlement- a fracture phenomenon caused by hydrogen penetrating into the material.
Because hydrogen is the lightest and smallest atom and diffuses easily through metallic materials, its detection is extremely difficult, and many aspects of its behavior within materials remain unclarified. In this study, by utilizing electrochemical techniques and a uniquely developed hydrogen visualization method, we aim to clarify the detailed mechanisms of hydrogen uptake and diffusion behavior. The purpose of this study is to gain insights that contribute to a deeper understanding of the hydrogen embrittlement mechanisms and the establishment of design guidelines for future hydrogen-resistant metallic materials.