Roles of H 2 S in behaviour of engineering alloys

Abstract

Hydrogen sulphide has long been associated with causing weight-loss corrosion, blistering, and sulphide stress cracking in low-alloy steels used in oil and gas production. In recent years, new stainless and nickel alloys have been proposed for use in many oilfield applications where corrosion in production environments is particularly severe. However, these materials, in some cases, may be susceptible to corrosion and cracking in sour environments. In this review the behaviour of low-alloy steels, stainless steels, and nickel alloys in H₂S-containing environments is discussed. Emphasis is placed on the various types of corrosion and cracking that can occur, their origin and mechanisms, and methods of control.