Study on corrosion and hydrogen permeation behavior of SM, T95, 8028 steels in simulated petroleum environment

Purpose This study aims to investigate the corrosion and hydrogen permeation behaviors of SM, T95 and 8028 steels in a simulated oilfield transportation environment by electrochemical methods. Design/methodology/approach Specimens of SM, T95 and 8028 steels were prepared. The polarization curves, EIS and hydrogen permeation curves of the materials were tested in the simulated solution for oilfield transportation service. The surface morphology was characterized by SEM, XPS and EBSD. Finally, DFT method was applied for cross verification. Findings In the simulated oilfield transportation environment, both 8028 and T95 steels form passive films and demonstrate excellent corrosion resistance, whereas SM steel exhibits inferior corrosion resistance. Both hydrogen permeation curves and TDS data demonstrate that the barrier effect of passive films significantly inhibits hydrogen permeation. DFT calculation results further confirm that the surface passive films on T95 and 8028 steels are the primary factors responsible for their extremely low hydrogen permeation current. Originality/value This work systematically evaluates the corrosion resistance and hydrogen permeation performance of SM, T95 and 8028 steels under simulated oilfield transportation conditions. It provides theoretical support and technical references for rational material selection and in-depth research on hydrogen embrittlement mechanisms.