Session: MF-24-01 Matls & Fabrication for Refining-Toughness Issues in Alloys at Elevated Temperatures

Paper Number: 123135

123135 - New Expertise on High-Temperature Hydrogen Attack Degraded Samples by Totalenergies and the French Atomic Energy and Alternative Energy Commission 

Hydrogen is a crucial element in refinery operations and has historically been employed under different conditions, often involving high pressure and elevated temperatures. However, when hydrogen levels surpass 3,5 bar (50Psi) and temperatures exceed 207°C (400F), a potentially catastrophic damage called High-Temperature Hydrogen Attack (HTHA) can occur on ferritic steels HTHA leads to irreversible damage in steels, posing a significant risk within the Oil & Gas industry. Despite its pervasive impact, HTHA remains inadequately understood, making it a persistent challenge for Oil & Gas industry. In response to the threat posed by HTHA, the TotalEnergies Company, undertook research to address this issue. Recognizing the need for comprehensive insights, TotalEnergies collaborated with scientists from the French Atomic Energy and Alternative Energy Commission (CEA), to conduct meticulous evaluations of HTHA damaged samples. These expert assessments were aimed to better understand on the intricate processes underlying HTHA degradation, particularly during its early stages. Moreover, the collaborative effort extended to research involving artificial samples, allowing for controlled experimentation and analysis. This approach tries to provide a nuanced understanding of HTHA mechanisms. This paper presents current and ongoing results. Additionally, this paper outlines plausible hypotheses that delve into the intricate interplay of atomic hydrogen within a metal matrix of ferritic steel under HTHA conditions. These hypotheses not only enhance our comprehension of HTHA but also try to open new approaches for advancements in the mitigating risks coming from this formidable challenge of the use of hydrogen.

Presenting Author: Charles Le Neve TotalEnergies

Presenting Author Biography: Charles Le Nevé, 29 at TotalEnergies, Material and welding Engineer,

Authors:

Charles Le Neve TotalEnergies
Raphael Goti TotalEnergies
Eric Andrieu INP-ENSIACET
Olivier Gillia The French Atomic Energy and Alternative Energy Commission
Camille Flament The French Atomic Energy and Alternative Energy Commission
Nicolas Chevreux The French Atomic Energy and Alternative Energy Commission