What defines stress corrosion?

Stress corrosion is characterized by the simultaneous occurrence of structural stress and corrosion, which can lead to cracking and material failure. This type of corrosion arises when an environment contains certain corrosive agents, along with external tensile stress on a material, often metals. The combination of mechanical stress and a corrosive environment accelerates the degradation process, making this phenomenon particularly insidious, as it can lead to unexpected failures in structures and components.

In many cases, stress corrosion can occur in various situations, not limited to weld joints or specific temperature ranges. It can manifest in materials under various types of stress, including residual stress from manufacturing processes or applied loads in service. Understanding this definition is crucial when assessing the integrity of engineering materials used in environments where both stress and corrosive elements are present.