A Review: Sensitization Phenomenon and Mechanisms

Sensitization is a well-known phenomenon that occurs in stainless steels that has the potential to negatively affect corrosion resistance and mechanical properties over a wide range of service conditions. This can ultimately lead to unexpected component failure. However, sensitization is a dynamic process, and its influence on material behavior varies as a function of a wide range of processing and service parameters. In this talk, we will review the underlying mechanisms of the sensitization phenomenon and the effects of temperature, time, chemistry, strain, and microstructure on sensitization kinetics. We will also review best practices to predict sensitization behavior and to prevent detrimental impacts to material properties that can result from this phenomenon.