Novel Hydrogen Embrittlement Detection System for Shipboard Applications

Hydrogen assisted cracking of high strength materials is a technical and safety concern for the Navy and industry. There is a need for a simple monitoring system that can be used in the vicinity of critical high strength components to indicate the cumulative impact of conditions that can lead to cracking and premature failure. To address this critical need, Luna Innovations is developing a robust, low-cost monitoring system to guard against premature failure of susceptible ship components. Luna successfully met Phase I objectives by demonstrating orthogonal techniques that provide direct and indirect information on conditions that promote hydrogen embrittlement. Luna’s multiple measurand approach maximizes measurement confidence, minimizes false positive readings, and confirms proper sensor operation. The Phase II program will continue to advance the development of a robust, low-cost detection system toward a field deployable system for military and commercial markets. Luna will design and fabricate crack detection assemblies and perform validation tests on the optimized sensors. The detection system response will be correlated to high strength alloys used in ship structures. Luna will develop the system software, algorithms and user interface for sensor operation. Luna will deliver a prototype system to the Navy at the conclusion of Phase II.