 Stress corrosion cracking

Cracking promoted by the combination of tensile stress, a susceptible material and a relevant chemical environment. Neither a corrosion rate alone nor an unexposed tensile test fully characterizes susceptibility.

Stress corrosion cracking (SCC) is a form of corrosion that occurs in metals under the combined influence of tensile stress and a corrosive environment. It leads to the progressive and localized deterioration of material, which may result in catastrophic failure if not monitored or mitigated. SCC is particularly problematic because it can occur in structures and components that are otherwise resistant to corrosion.