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Liquid Metal Embrittlement

Liquid metal embrittlement is the decrease in ductility of a metal caused by contact with liquid metal.  The decrease in ductility can result in catastrophic brittle failure of a normally ductile material.  Very small amounts of liquid metal are sufficient to result in embrittlement.

Some events that may permit liquid metal embrittlement under the appropriate circumstances are listed below:

•   Brazing
•   Soldering
•   Welding
•   Heat treatment
•   Hot working
•   Elevated temperature service

In addition to an event that will allow liquid metal embrittlement to occur, it is also required to have the component in contact with a liquid metal that will embrittle the component.  

Liquid Metal Embrittlement Failures

The liquid metal can not only reduce the ductility but significantly reduce tensile strength.  Liquid metal embrittlement is an insidious type of failure as it can occur at loads below yield stress.  Thus, catastrophic failure can occur without significant deformation or obvious deterioration of the component.

Intergranular  or transgranular cleavage fracture are the common fracture modes associated with liquid metal embrittlement.  However reduction in mechanical properties due to decohesion can occur.  This results in a ductile fracture mode occurring at reduced tensile strength.  An appropriate analysis can determine the effect of liquid metal embrittlement on failure.

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Last modified: September 11, 2007