Postdoctoral exchange and hydrogen embrittlement research through Mascot project

Renata Latypova (Post-doctoral researcher, University of Oulu) with the first successful hydrogen permeation test

Having defended my PhD thesis “Development and application of a novel tuning-fork test in studying hydrogen-induced fracture in as-quenched martensitic steels” in December 2022, my postdoctoral research naturally continued to further explore the phenomenon of hydrogen embrittlement (HE) in steels. Conversations regarding a research visit began immediately after my graduation, and the Sustainable Materials Science (SMS) research group at the University of Ghent stood out as the perfect fit to further my research. SMS group is globally recognised for its comprehensive work on the interaction of materials with hydrogen, and it possesses extensive experience with several key techniques implemented in HE research, notably thermal desorption spectroscopy (TDS). After thorough planning and composing a research plan, Professors Kim Verbeken and Tom Depover welcomed me to their group for a 6-month research visit (10/23 – 3/24) and my Belgium adventure began.

During my research visit, I focused on learning and applying various techniques that can be implemented in the Mascot project, such as:
– Nanoindentation testing: Investigating deformation and hardness properties at nanoscale.
– Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC): Facilitates the measurement of heat energy uptake and enables the study of phase transformations during temperature ramping.
– Melt extraction: Utilised to determine the hydrogen concentration of pre-charged samples by melting them in the impulse furnace, typically conducted before TDS to establish an appropriate charging time for hydrogen saturation.
– Thermal desorption spectroscopy (TDS): Employed to determine hydrogen concentration and to characterise hydrogen trapping sites and their energies under controlled temperature ramping conditions.
– Electrochemical hydrogen permeation (EP) under load: A technique for evaluating hydrogen diffusion with specimens subjected to tensile loads.

My research stay was productive and filled with new learning experiences, equipping me with valuable skills that will enhance my ongoing research endeavours. The SMS group was very welcoming, fostering an environment that combined a positive, uplifting atmosphere with a motivated work culture, an aspect I deeply appreciated. Fortunately, the timing of my visit coincided with significant events such as five PhD defences and various group activities, which greatly facilitated my integration into the SMS group. Forming friendships came naturally, making the six months fly by, and leaving me with fond memories and even a new hobby, badminton, which I enjoyed playing with my colleagues. Overall, my research visit proved to be not only scientifically successful but also rewarding in personal aspects, and I am very grateful for this incredible opportunity afforded to me.