stress corrosion cracking

Stress corrosion cracking (SCC) is a failure mechanism that occurs when a material, usually metal, is subjected to tensile stress in the presence of a corrosive environment. This combination of factors leads to the formation of cracks that can grow over time, often without any visible signs. SCC can result in sudden and unexpected failures, making it a significant concern in industries like oil and gas, construction, and transportation. Proper materials selection, stress management, and protective measures can help mitigate the risk of SCC, ensuring safer and more reliable structures and equipment.