An acoustic emission pattern recognition approach for hydrogen damage on carbon steel

An acoustic emission technique, in conjunction with pattern recognition methodology, is demonstrated to be a successful tool for the monitoring response of hydrogen induced crack characterization of engineering materials, e.g. carbon steel. The principles and instrumentation involved in the acoustic emission technique are described. Statistical pattern recognition methodology, used for the analysis of acoustic emission waveforms and in the design of the required discriminating classifiers, is presented. These results provide a useful method of monitoring hydrogen induced crack development in metal for onsite nondestructive inspection.