Combined effects of deformation (strain and strain state), grain size, and carbon content on carbide precipitation and corrosion sensitization in 304 stainless steel

In this investigation we have examined the combined effects of temperature, aging time, carbon content, grain size, strain, and strain state (uniaxial versus rolling deformation) on sensitization development in 304 stainless steel. In general, increasing the carbon content, strain, and strain state (uniaxial → rolling) decreases the sensitization time. Reducing the grain size also accelerates the rate of sensitization development. In addition, for sufficiently small grain sizes, even with superimposed straining, the grain boundaries become dominant in Cr diffusion kinetics.